The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has officially reopened the section of the Southern Bypass that was temporarily closed for repairs. The closure, which lasted nearly two weeks, aimed to rehabilitate a weighbridge and improve the pavements on the road. With the completion of these works, traffic can now flow smoothly along this key route.
In an official statement, KeNHA expressed its gratitude to road users for their patience during the closure. “The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) wishes to inform the public that the section of Nairobi Southern Bypass from Ole Sereni Interchange to Ngong Road Interchange has been opened to traffic today,” the statement read. The authority emphasized the importance of the maintenance work in ensuring the safety and durability of the highway infrastructure.
The Southern Bypass is a vital artery for Nairobi’s traffic network, offering a convenient alternative for vehicles seeking to avoid the congestion of the city center. However, wear and tear, particularly around critical infrastructure like weighbridges, can compromise the road’s efficiency and safety.
The rehabilitation targeted the weighbridge, which plays an essential role in regulating overloaded trucks that contribute to road degradation. Additionally, pavement repairs were carried out to address damaged sections, ensuring that the road remains in optimal condition for years to come.
The closure, which began on December 24, 2024, at 8:00 PM, caused temporary inconveniences for commuters, with the section from Ole Sereni Interchange to Ngong Road Interchange being entirely off-limits. KeNHA’s swift and efficient completion of the work ahead of the anticipated January 5, 2025, deadline reflects the authority’s commitment to minimizing disruption while maintaining high standards.
While reopening the bypass, KeNHA also took the opportunity to remind motorists to prioritize road safety. “Motorists are advised to observe road signs and exercise caution for their safety and that of other road users. Don’t speed to impress; arrive to embrace,” the statement added, underscoring the importance of responsible driving.
The emphasis on road safety aligns with broader efforts to reduce accidents on Kenyan roads. Drivers are urged to maintain safe speeds, particularly on newly repaired sections, where workers may still be present for final checks or adjustments.
The reopening has been welcomed by commuters and businesses that rely on the Southern Bypass for efficient transportation. The route serves as a critical link for freight and passenger vehicles, enabling smooth transit between key parts of Nairobi and its outskirts.
Speaking about the reopening, one regular user, James Otieno, said, “The closure was an inconvenience, but it’s good to see KeNHA taking care of our roads. These repairs were long overdue, and I hope motorists will appreciate and take care of the road.”
As Kenya’s road network continues to expand and evolve, regular maintenance remains a priority for KeNHA. The authority’s proactive approach in rehabilitating essential infrastructure like the Southern Bypass demonstrates its commitment to supporting economic growth and ensuring the safety of road users.
Motorists are encouraged to remain vigilant and report any emerging issues on the bypass or other highways to KeNHA for prompt action. With the bypass now fully operational, the focus shifts to how road users can collectively maintain its functionality through responsible driving practices.
The reopening of the Southern Bypass marks yet another milestone in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to maintain a world-class road network.
