Clogged drains paralyse Eastleigh as residents decry flooding and neglect
One of the worst-hit areas is the Thirteenth Street roundabout next to Yare Towers, where the water often forms a large stagnant pool that takes several days to clear.
Heavily clogged drainage and sewer systems along major roads in Eastleigh are causing frequent flooding, creating serious disruptions for residents, businesses, and road users.
A spot check by The Eastleigh Voice has revealed that most drainage systems are either blocked or filled to capacity, with the most affected being those along General Wariungi Street.
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The stretch from Nomads to Shah Macaan is filled with garbage, obstructing the sewer flow and resulting in stagnant water during rainy seasons.
In some sections near the Ismariot Hotel, the open and uncovered sewers pose serious risks to pedestrians and motorists alike.
These open drains remain exposed, creating a hazardous environment, especially at night or during heavy rains.
When it rains, water from Pumwani flows through the interconnected drainage systems and accumulates at the blocked sections. The result is overflowing water that spreads across the roads, creating temporary pools.
One of the worst-hit areas is the Thirteenth Street roundabout next to Yare Towers, where the water often forms a large stagnant pool that takes several days to clear.
The situation deteriorates further during heavy rainfall, as the water extends to other streets along Mohamed Yussuf Haji Avenue, causing difficulties for both motorists and hawkers who conduct business along these roads.
Neglect
Locals are now calling on the Nairobi City County government and the Nairobi Water and Sewerage Company to step in and clear the sewer systems. Many believe the continued flooding and poor sanitation are a result of neglect and a lack of regular maintenance.
Naima Sheikh, a vendor who sells snacks and water near KFC, said the smell from the clogged sewers is often unbearable. She noted that for a long time, no cleanup has taken place.
"I have not seen them for a very long time; this is why Eastleigh is flooded every time it rains," she said.
In the Shah Macaan area, the situation worsens with every rain. Blocked drains cause water to flow along the sides of the road, disrupting the operations of small food kiosks and inconveniencing residents.
Many are forced to wade through the dirty water to reach their homes.
Ahmed Abdullahi, a taxi driver who operates near Equity Bank, expressed frustration over the state of the drainage.
"I believe Nairobi County can unclog these systems. They have been in this state for a long time," he said.
Continued rainfall
The Kenya Meteorological Department has predicted continued rainfall in Nairobi, raising concerns that flooding in Eastleigh will persist unless immediate action is taken.
Residents believe that regular maintenance and garbage removal from the sewers could help alleviate the problem.
"Floods affect businesses, especially the small ones. Nairobi City County should help in unclogging the sewer system," stated Ibarhim, a resident of Eastleigh.
During severe flooding, even established shops are affected. Many are forced to close early due to the rising water levels.
The usually busy streets of Eastleigh become deserted, with only a few vendors managing to continue trading under makeshift shelters.
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