December 12-17 Closure to Facilitate Erection of Footbridge at Juja Highpoint
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a partial closure of the Thika Superhighway from December 12 to 17. This closure will facilitate the construction of a new footbridge at Juja Highpoint (Centurion). The initiative is aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety by reducing accidents and providing safer crossings for commuters along this busy highway.
Impact of the Closure
The partial closure of the Thika Road will see disruptions to both Nairobi-bound and Thika-bound traffic. KeNHA has set up a traffic management plan to mitigate these disruptions. For Nairobi-bound traffic, motorists will be directed to use a diversion route behind the Lexo petrol station before rejoining the Superhighway. Conversely, Thika-bound traffic will use a diversion behind Centurion hotel before reconnecting with the highway. The authority has urged all road users to exercise caution and follow the traffic management plan, ensuring cooperation with police and traffic marshals on-site to avoid accidents.
Purpose Behind the Footbridge Construction
The construction of the footbridge is a critical initiative by KeNHA to address the rampant accidents and fatalities that have occurred due to unsafe pedestrian crossings along Thika Road. This busy highway, which serves as a vital link between Nairobi and the surrounding counties, experiences heavy traffic congestion and high-speed vehicles, making pedestrian crossings particularly dangerous.
In December 2022, former Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen highlighted the need for additional safety measures along the Thika Road, specifically targeting the construction of at least four new footbridges. These footbridges were planned to be installed at various points, including Juja Highpoint stage near Centurion hotel, Kihunguro section, Juja Mona Park area, and Clay Works/Northlands. The initiative aimed to provide safer crossing options for pedestrians, reduce accidents, and encourage the use of designated crossing points.
Murkomen emphasized that these footbridges were part of a broader strategy to curb accidents along the superhighway. Other measures included public sensitization on the use of footbridges, installation of road signs, and improved lighting at pedestrian crossing points. The government also undertook the installation of fencing along critical sections of the median to prevent pedestrians from crossing in unsafe areas.
The lighting installed at these footbridges is intended to improve visibility, making crossings safer during both day and night. Additionally, improved markings and the maintenance of road bumps have been prioritized to slow down traffic and provide clear pedestrian crossing points. These efforts are in line with the government’s broader vision to create safer roads and reduce road accidents across the country.
Coordination with Law Enforcement and Stakeholders
To ensure the success of the footbridge construction and to manage the traffic disruptions effectively, KeNHA has coordinated with the police and traffic marshals to oversee the diversion routes and enforce road safety measures. Motorists are advised to adhere strictly to the signs and instructions provided at the diversion points to avoid delays and accidents. The cooperation of the public and compliance with these measures is crucial in minimizing the impact of the closure on daily commuters.
The partial closure from December 12 to 17 is a temporary measure that will allow for the uninterrupted construction of the footbridge. KeNHA has assured the public that they are working to complete the project within the stipulated timeline, thereby minimizing disruptions to the daily commute for thousands of Kenyans who rely on this critical road network.
Ongoing and Future Developments
The footbridge at Juja Highpoint is one of several planned installations across the Thika Road. KeNHA’s strategy also includes the installation of additional footbridges as part of a comprehensive safety plan. The authority has completed engineering designs for these projects, ensuring that each footbridge meets safety standards and is strategically placed to provide the greatest benefit to commuters.
As the construction progresses, KeNHA will continue to monitor the situation closely, making adjustments to the traffic management plan as necessary to accommodate the needs of road users. The authority is committed to enhancing the safety and efficiency of the Thika Superhighway, ensuring that it remains a vital artery for economic activity and daily commuting in Kenya.
The partial closure from December 12 to 17 represents a critical step in achieving these goals. By erecting the footbridge at Juja Highpoint, KeNHA is taking proactive steps to prevent accidents and save lives, demonstrating a commitment to safer roadways for all Kenyans.
