The deplorable state of roads leading to petroleum depots in Kenya has emerged as a pressing concern, posing significant risks to public safety, economic stability, and efficient delivery of petroleum products. This was revealed during a presentation to a Senate committee by the Petroleum Institute of East Africa (PIEA).
In their detailed report, PIEA General Manager Wanjiku Manyara and Chairman Peter Murungi emphasized the alarming impact of neglected road infrastructure on the transportation and last-mile delivery of petroleum products. “The roads are in a dilapidated state and require urgent repairs and maintenance,” the report stated, highlighting the immediate need for intervention.
The deteriorated roads not only jeopardize the safe transportation of highly flammable petroleum products but also pose a significant economic threat. “Of great concern is the risk of tanker rollovers and potential product spillage, which could result in catastrophic fire incidents,” the report warned. The institute cited several near-misses that could have turned disastrous, underscoring the urgency of addressing the issue.
The challenges are compounded by increased fuel loading and delivery times. Tanker drivers are forced to navigate treacherous routes and reroute their journeys to avoid hazardous areas, leading to delays in supplying petroleum to consumer locations. This has adverse implications for the country’s fuel security and supply chain efficiency.
In Nairobi County, roads such as Lunga Lunga Road and sections of Outering Road were singled out for their congestion and poor condition. These routes are critical for petroleum transportation but frequently experience traffic jams that exacerbate the risks associated with fuel tanker movement.
The PIEA report called for measures to decongest such roads and prioritize traffic easing whenever fuel tankers are involved. “Even a slight combustion in a fuel tanker stuck in traffic could result in massive losses,” the report cautioned, emphasizing the potential for devastating accidents.
The state of the roads has also driven up the cost of tanker repairs and maintenance, further burdening businesses in the petroleum industry. These additional costs threaten the sustainability of operations and the livelihoods of tanker drivers, many of whom depend on the industry for their income.
The Nairobi and Mombasa depots, which account for over 70% of Kenya’s and East Africa’s petroleum fuel requirements, are particularly affected by the poor road infrastructure. The delays in rehabilitating these routes risk not only local but also regional fuel supply stability, considering Kenya’s strategic role in East Africa’s petroleum distribution network.
The petroleum industry is a significant contributor to Kenya’s economy, generating approximately KSh 300 billion annually through nine levies and taxes. The report urged the government to recognize the critical role of road infrastructure in supporting this sector.
“Immediate action is required to rehabilitate and maintain the roads leading to petroleum depots. This is not just a matter of convenience but of national safety and economic resilience,” the PIEA representatives stressed during their presentation to the Senate committee.
The state of road infrastructure leading to petroleum depots demands urgent attention from policymakers. The risks posed by the dilapidated roads are multifaceted, affecting safety, economic growth, and the livelihoods of those in the petroleum sector. Prioritizing the rehabilitation of these critical routes will not only enhance the efficiency of petroleum delivery but also safeguard lives and bolster the economy.
It is imperative for the government to act swiftly, ensuring that the infrastructure supporting such a vital industry aligns with the nation’s safety and development goals.
