Heavy traffic as KeNHA closes Athi River-Namanga road at Kimalat

Kenya National Highways Authority has announced the closure of the Athi River-Namanga road at the Kimalat area. 

KeNHA Director General Kung'u Ndung'u announced the decision on Wednesday. 

"The Kenya National Highways Authority regrets to inform the public of the closure of Athi River - Namanga Road (A2) at Kimalat area," Ndungu said. 

He said the closure follows flooding occasioned by overnight heavy downpours that led River Kimalat to burst its banks.

Ndung'u added that alternative routes through earth roads are equally flooded.

"The Authority cautions road users against any attempts to use these affected areas in the interest of their safety," KeNHA warned. 

Ndung'u said the authority will continue to monitor the water levels and advise when the water subsides.

He said the authority remains committed to ensuring seamless connectivity to facilitate the safe passage of goods and services for economic prosperity.

"At KeNHA, your safety is our utmost priority," he said.  

On Friday, the Kenya National and Highways Authority (KeNHA) issued an advisory to motorists plying the Athi River-Machakos Road near Green Park estate to exercise caution.

"The embankment slopes have eroded, posing risks to the service road. The main carriageway remains open, however, due to the tenuous conditions, please refrain from using the service road," it said. 

On the same day, some residents were forced to vacate their houses from the Daystar area following a flooding scare.

Athi River East Subcounty police commander Anderson Mbae said the residents were advised to move to safety after police received alarm reports that there were indications the area could be flooded.

"There was a lot of runoff water from Lukenya ridge which overflew the adjacent land. It’s confirmed there was no casualty," Mbae said.

More than 2, 000 people have been affected by the floods in the area.

All the victims were rescued from their marooned and flooded homes to safety.