Kenya Power to demolish 2,000 structures in "Ondokea Laini" operation

Kenya Power is continuing its operations of pulling down illegal structures built on power wayleaves. 

So far, 15,250 unsafe structures, particularly in informal settlements in Mukuru kwa Njenga, Imara Daima, Mukuru kwa Reuben and Sinai village, have been cleared since December.

The demolished structures were illegally built on the 100km stretch reserve known as a wayleave that stretches 5,300km countrywide.

On Monday, numerous buildings were brought down in Nairobi’s Mihang’o estate in operation "Ondokea Laini."

Kenya Power Security Services manager Geoffrey Kigen said around 700 illegal structures were demolished last week when the operation resumed.

The illegal houses were located in some parts of Buruburu Farmer's land.

Kigen said that this week the operation will this week focus on Mowlem and Dandora power substation, targeting around 2,000 houses.

Kenya Power said houses should be built at a width of 20 metres on either side of a 220KV powerline, on a line of 132KV should be built at a distance of 15 metres.

Kigen also said owners had been notified to remove their structures to create a safety corridor and space for maintenance of the lines.

"Ondokea Laini" is a multi-agency operation involving more than 20 government parastatals.

The first phase was done in Embakasi through Mukuru slums to Enterprise Road.

Umoja Innercore, Tassia, Mathare Valley slums, Tena Estate, Umoja One and Baraka Estate in Embakasi are some of the estates which have also been mapped.