KeNHA announces five-day traffic disruption on section of Thika Superhighway 

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a five-day closure of a section of Thika Superhighway (A2) at Juja High Point.

The closure, starting Wednesday, July 10, 2024, and running until Monday, July 15, 2024, is meant to facilitate the construction of a mid-span footbridge.

“The closure is essential to ensure the safe and efficient construction of the footbridge foundation. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and appreciate the public's patience and cooperation,” KeNHA Director General Kung'u Ndung'u said.

Ndung'u warned motorists of potential traffic disruptions on the inner lane of the Thika-bound side of the highway.

To mitigate the impact, drivers have been urged to adhere to the proposed traffic management plan and to cooperate with police and traffic marshals who will be on site to assist.

Motorists have also been advised to stay informed and plan their routes accordingly to avoid delays.

Recent data from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) highlighted a concerning increase in road fatalities this year compared to last.

Between January 1 and March 20, 2024, the Authority said 1,026 lives were lost to road crashes, which is a seven per cent increase from the 956 fatalities recorded in the same period in 2023.

Pedestrians accounted for the highest number of fatalities at 384, up from 323 last year. Motorcyclists recorded 242 deaths, slightly down from 262 in 2023. Passenger deaths also rose significantly, with 225 lives lost in 2024 compared to 170 in the previous year.

In response to the rising number of accidents, KeNHA imposed hefty fines on pedestrians failing to use footbridges across the country.

The authority warned that pedestrians caught not using footbridges face fines ranging from Sh500 to Sh5,000.

“Crossing a road under a footbridge could earn you a fine of approximately Sh500 - Sh5,000. Despite this, people still prefer to cross the road to save time but be careful not to save time and lose life,” the authority said.