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KeNHA closes another road in Tana River in anticipation of floods

Kenya Red Cross Society rescue people stranded following flooding in Tana River on April 8, 2024. (Photo: KRCS)

By Mary Wambui | 09 Apr 2024

Motorists plying Madogo-Hola (B89) Road should anticipate flooding at Dukanotu and Bilbil Bridge, KeNHA says.

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has closed Madogo-Hola (B89) Road in anticipation of floods as heavy rains pound several parts of the country.

In a statement, the authority said motorists plying that route, which connects North Eastern to Mombasa, should anticipate flooding at Dukanotu and Bilbil Bridge.

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"Flooding has already occurred on the Bangaley-Madogo Road (A3) at Tulla and Arer, posing significant safety risks to road users," the authority said on Tuesday, adding it was monitoring major highways across the country to guide traffic flow.

Meanwhile, the road section between Madogo Junction and Bura has been declared unsafe and closed until the floodwaters subside and the damaged section is reinstated.

"Contractors are on-site, prepared to address any issues once the waters recede. Motorists are urged to exercise caution and refrain from driving through flooded areas," KeNHA said.

The ongoing rains have rendered sections of roads impassable.

On Tuesday morning, an Umma Express bus travelling to Nairobi from Garissa was marooned by raging waters at Arer near Tulla village in Tana River County.

The Kenya Red Cross Society was forced to use boats to rescue more than 50 passengers trapped in the bus.

The agency has since confirmed the rescue of all passengers aboard the bus, with priority initially given to women, children, and the sick.

"Our efforts are ongoing as we continue to rescue other commuters who were stranded due to the road being cut off at Arer near Tulla Bridge," the agency said.

Motorists were advised to be extra cautious to avoid accidents.