Petitioner wants KeNHA to ban long-distance trucks from Eldoret CBD to prevent more deaths

An Eldoret resident has petitioned the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to urgently ban long-distance truck trailers from using roads within Eldoret town and instead compel them to use the Eldoret Southern Bypass, citing a surge in traffic accidents, congestion and pollution.

In a letter dated April 19, Albert Kimutai urged the Authority to act swiftly, warning that the continued movement of heavy-duty trucks through the central business district and residential areas of Eldoret poses a persistent threat to public safety and urban infrastructure.

“I am writing to you as a concerned citizen and stakeholder in the safety and well-being of Eldoret residents and road users,” Kimutai said in his petition.

“I wish to formally petition your esteemed office to urgently consider restricting long-distance truck trailers from passing through Eldoret Town and instead mandating their use of the Eldoret Southern Bypass.”

He cited a recent accident on April 18 in which a long-distance truck collided with a motorcycle, leading to the death of a pillion passenger. Kimutai described the incident as tragic and symptomatic of a broader problem involving trucks using urban roads that are ill-equipped to handle such vehicles.

He said the town’s roads, especially Uganda Road and other main arteries, have become increasingly congested, a situation worsened by the growth in both human population and vehicle numbers. He warned that this growth had turned Eldoret into a disaster hotspot.

“In addition to the loss of life, the presence of these trucks has led to increased traffic congestion, faster road deterioration, and rising levels of air and noise pollution in residential and school zones,” he said.

“There is also a heightened danger for pedestrians, cyclists, and public service vehicles.”

The petition pointed out that the Eldoret Southern Bypass, which features three overpass interlinks at Ngeria, Kapseret, and Leseru, was specifically constructed to handle heavy commercial transport and ease congestion within Eldoret. However, it remains underutilised.

“The Eldoret Southern Bypass, which was constructed to ease such risks and improve traffic flow, remains underutilised by heavy commercial transport,” Kimutai said.

“Directing long-distance trucks to use this bypass would significantly reduce congestion, minimise tragedies, and enhance the overall quality of life in Eldoret.”

He called on KeNHA to implement and enforce mandatory use of the bypass for all long-distance trucks. Additionally, he recommended that appropriate road signage be erected and that KeNHA work with traffic police and county authorities to establish enforcement mechanisms.

Kimutai also proposed awareness campaigns to educate truck drivers and logistics companies about the new routing guidelines.

“Your swift action on this matter will be a major step towards preventing further loss of life and ensuring safer roads for all Eldoret residents,” he said.

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