Home / City-Affairs

City Hall ramps up bridge repairs as torrential rains sweep Nairobi

The collapsed bridge in Kiambiu. (Photo: Justine Ondieki)

By Maureen Kinyanjui | 07 May 2024

The Chief Officer of Disaster Management reiterated the government's commitment to minimising disruptions for Nairobians during this challenging period.

Nairobi County Government has intensified efforts to repair flood-damaged bridges amidst the ongoing heavy rains pounding the county.

In a bid to bolster rescue operations and ensure the safety of Nairobi residents, the Emergency Response Committee has taken action to repair and enhance 17 bridges damaged by the floods

Keep reading

In a statement on Tuesday, Disaster Management Chief Officer Bramwell Simiyu said the county is undertaking a comprehensive plan to restore connectivity and mobility for Nairobians across the affected areas.

In Eastleigh South Ward, the Kiambiu Uhuru Bridge is being constructed to provide a new crossing point for pedestrians.

The Chief Officer noted that Thiga Footbridge is undergoing repairs including the replacement of its steel chequered plate deck, retrofitting of columns, girder, and handrail, as well as strengthening of road furniture.

The Kiambiu-Jerusalem Bridge is undergoing repairs to its mid-support, girders, and deck to ensure safe passage for commuters.

In Mathare North, residents will use a temporary footbridge to facilitate passage until permanent repairs are completed on John Saga Bridge.

"At Gitathuru Wanjiru Footbridge, an additional span is being added and girders are being strengthened to enhance its structural integrity," reads the statement.

The construction of a new footbridge is underway at Mandera Koria Bridge, while the Lungalunga Viwandani Footbridge is being reconfigured to meet safety standards as per the Red Cross redline markings on site.

Mosque Road Footbridge is also undergoing construction to provide a safer crossing for pedestrians.

The Ngumba Bridge is being extended by approximately 20 meters to cover an extended floodplain, while a new footbridge is under construction at Huruma (Ghetto Area) to aid with passage.

Similarly, new footbridges are being constructed at Gitathuru Utalii Hotel and Kisii, with repairs underway at Kisii Footbridge to address damaged deck spans and supports.

Additionally, efforts are being made to repair and strengthen the Ruthimitu Uthiru Bridge, Nyando Bridge in Nyayo Highrise, Sarang'ombe Footbridge, Sarang'ombe Motorable, and Mumwe Road Box Culvert to ensure safe passage and prevent further damage.

The Chief Officer of Disaster Management reiterated the government's commitment to minimising disruptions for Nairobians during this challenging period.

He emphasised the importance of ongoing repair efforts and reinforced bridges to ensure the continued mobility of residents as they go about their daily activities.

"The collaborative efforts of the Nairobi City Council fire department, Red Cross, St. John's Ambulance, and the Sub-County Health Department are vital in ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents during this time of need," Simiyu said.