KeNHA issues rockslide alert for Machakos Kangundo road

Kangundo road signage in Nairobi. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has cautioned motorists against potential hazards due to falling rock debris along the Machakos – Kangundo road, particularly at Kaloleni.
 The authority’s alert follows recent incidents of rockslides, which have heightened risks for road users.

In a statement, KeNHA advised, “Motorists should exercise vigilance while navigating this affected section of the road. Our teams are actively monitoring the situation and working to clear the debris.” 

The authority has installed traffic warning signs near the site to inform and protect travellers.

The warning comes in the wake of a similar event on May 8, when debris obstructed the Nairobi bound lanes of the Kenol – Sagana road at Mugetho, necessitating a temporary road closure. 

Experts link the occurrences to the current heavy rainfall, which has loosened soil and increased the likelihood of landslides.

The adverse weather has also wreaked havoc on infrastructure, with several roads damaged by flash floods.

 The cost of repairs is expected to be substantial, and the timeline for reconstruction remains uncertain.

Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, in a recent  television interview, expressed concerns over financial constraints, including a backlog of pending bills totalling Sh160 billion. 

“We are committed to restoring the infrastructure post-rainfall, within the limits of our available resources,” said Murkomen.