Ndaraca village residents in Juja subcounty are relieved after the Kiambu government completed the construction of a Sh16 million bridge across Theta River.
A makeshift bridge that was there had been branded ‘the bridge of death’ by residents for claiming tens of lives, especially during heavy rains.
Governor James Nyoro, while opening the new bridge on Monday, said it will open up the region to more development and investment.
“The bridge has been a thorn in the flesh for thousands of residents who reside in both Ndaraca and Kalimoni areas. Their cry has come to an end and we expect the two regions to massively grow,” he said.
Theta MCA Kuria Karema said more than 30,000 residents will be the major beneficiaries of the project.
He said residents have been using a makeshift bridge that would occasionally be swept away by floodwaters.
“The makeshift bridge has exposed our people to many dangers, including drowning in the river. Thugs have also been taking advantage of the situation and have been mugging residents in the early morning and in the evening. These predicaments will now come to an end,” Karema said.
Resident Muiruri Nyokabi said the region has been lagging behind in terms of development due to lack of a bridge.
“We have been fundraising for construction of the bridge, but the money has never been enough. Our leaders have been turning their backs on us whenever we reach out to them for help. We are however grateful that Governor Nyoro heard our cries and put up the bridge,” Muiruri said.
Resident Harun Njoroge said ease in movement of people and goods will spur economic growth in the area.
“Our economy has been stagnant for years, but we are starting to see light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
Rosemary Nyambura said children will be crossing the river safely to and from school.
“During the rainy season, our children who school at Kalimoni stayed home because they could not use the dangerous makeshift bridge. This will no longer be the case. We are thankful,” she said.
Governor Nyoro said the county government will also construct the Matangi-Ndaraca-Zone T road to improve accessibility and instal street lights for enhanced security.
“We procured earthmovers to ensure that our roads are upgraded. Currently, the machines are in Ngoliba ward in Thika. They will be brought here to ensure that all crucial roads are graded for enhanced mobility,” Nyoro said.
Edited by A.N
