The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has announced a two-month closure of Quarry Road in the Mlolongo-Syokimau area to facilitate much-needed rehabilitation and improvement works. The closure, scheduled to begin at 6:00 AM on Monday, February 24, and last until 6:00 PM on Friday, April 25, is expected to impact traffic flow in the region significantly.
In a statement issued on Saturday, February 22, KURA urged motorists and residents to make necessary adjustments and use designated alternative routes. The agency assured the public that the move was part of a broader initiative to improve road infrastructure and address concerns raised by road users.
To minimize disruptions, KURA has provided specific diversion plans for light and heavy vehicles. Motorists coming from Katani Center using light trucks have been advised to take the Syokimau Airport Road, which leads to the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway. On the other hand, heavy truck drivers will need to use the road passing Ebenezer Mall and Tuffoam Industries before merging onto the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway.
While acknowledging the inconvenience, KURA urged road users to cooperate with traffic marshals and adhere to the directions provided. Additionally, local authorities will deploy traffic officers to help manage congestion and ensure smooth navigation during the closure period.
The decision to close the road follows persistent complaints from residents and motorists about the deteriorating state of Quarry Road. Over the years, the road has suffered significant damage, with large potholes and cracks causing frequent mechanical breakdowns and accidents. The situation worsened following the heavy rains and flooding experienced in the past year, which further weakened the road’s structural integrity.
Quarry Road plays a crucial role in connecting Mombasa Road to Kangundo Road and serves as a vital link for businesses and residents in Machakos County. However, the road’s poor condition has led to numerous drainage issues, particularly during rainy seasons, causing severe disruptions for motorists and nearby communities.
One of the major contributors to the road’s rapid deterioration has been the heavy traffic of trucks transporting construction materials from nearby quarries. Areas such as Mlolongo Phase 3, Katani, and Ngelani host several construction sites and industries, leading to frequent movement of heavily loaded trucks. This constant pressure on the road has accelerated wear and tear, necessitating urgent intervention.
With the ongoing urban expansion and increased demand for quality road networks, the government has had to prioritize infrastructure development projects. The closure of Quarry Road for rehabilitation is part of a broader effort to enhance the region’s transportation system and improve accessibility.
The road rehabilitation project aligns with the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure across the country. In July 2024, National Assembly Transport and Infrastructure Committee Chairperson George Kariuki (Ndia) assured Parliament that construction work on the Mlolongo-Quarry-Katani Road was a priority. He emphasized that the Ministry of Roads had immediate plans to repair the damaged sections and ensure that the road meets the required safety and durability standards.
Residents and business owners in the affected areas have expressed optimism about the planned improvements, hoping that the new road infrastructure will reduce vehicle maintenance costs and improve overall transport efficiency. However, some have raised concerns about the potential traffic snarl-ups during the closure period, urging authorities to expedite the project and ensure timely completion.
While the two-month closure of Quarry Road in Mlolongo-Syokimau is expected to cause some inconvenience, the long-term benefits of the rehabilitation project outweigh the temporary disruptions. KURA has reassured the public that all necessary measures will be taken to ensure a smooth transition and minimize congestion.
Motorists and residents are encouraged to plan their travel routes accordingly and remain patient as the road undergoes much-needed repairs. Once completed, the improved road is expected to enhance connectivity, reduce transportation costs, and contribute to the region’s economic growth.
