The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has raised concerns over escalating traffic congestion along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway, which left hundreds of motorists stranded on Friday, December 20. The perennial problem has become synonymous with the holiday season as thousands of Kenyans travel upcountry for festive celebrations.
In a public notice, KeNHA appealed for patience and compliance with traffic regulations. The authority identified key congestion hotspots, including the Rironi-Naivasha-Nakuru Road and the Rironi-Mai Mahiu-Naivasha Road. Efforts are underway to manage the situation, with traffic police and other stakeholders deployed to ease the flow.
Worst-Affected Areas
According to reports from St John Ambulance, the most affected sections include the stretches between Kimende and Flyover, as well as Limuru-Mai Mahiu. Social media posts captured scenes of frustrated motorists abandoning their vehicles on the roadside as the gridlock dragged on.
“Motorists are advised to exercise patience and observe lane discipline for their safety and that of other road users,” KeNHA stated. “We are working with traffic police to ensure smooth traffic flow and safe arrivals.”
Alternative Routes Suggested
To alleviate pressure on the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway, KeNHA has proposed three alternative routes:
- Naivasha-Njabini-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru Route
- Flyover-Njabini-Olkalou-Dundori-Lanet-Nakuru Route
- Ngong-Suswa-Narok-Mau Narok-Nakuru Highway
A Recurring Challenge
The Nairobi-Nakuru Highway has long been notorious for severe traffic jams, especially during peak travel seasons. On December 15, 2023, travelers endured over eight hours of standstill traffic near Mai Mahiu, attributed to overlapping vehicles and inadequate traffic control measures.
A similar scenario unfolded on December 22, 2023, near Soko Mjinga, where motorists reported being stuck as early as 7:00 a.m. Overlapping and impatience exacerbated the gridlock, drawing public criticism, including from Kakamega Senator Boni Khalwale, who decried the recurring inefficiencies.
Also READ: Government Unveils New Traffic Rules And Penalties To Motorists
Public Awareness Campaign
KeNHA has urged travelers heading upcountry for the festivities to plan their trips in advance, refrain from overlapping, and consider alternative routes to reduce congestion. The authority assured road users that measures are in place to minimize delays and ensure safe and seamless journeys during the holiday season.
