Days after a bridge developed cracks in Joska, Machakos County, another one collapsed on one side in Embu County.
The Ikong’u Bridge located between the Kiangima and Gatunduri areas in the Upper Eastern region started developing cracks on Monday, April 29.
This led to fears that the entire bridge which is situated along Embu-Meru Highway could collapse anytime causing tragedy.
Reports indicate that Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and security officials arrived on the scene on Tuesday, April 30, and recommended its closure.
Embu County Police Commander Nicholas Maina has urged motorists to use alternative routes.
Those heading to Nairobi from Meru were directed to divert at Kivwe Market through Muthatari and back to the highway in Embu town, while those heading to Meru should divert at Mutunduri through Manyatta, Kianjokoma, and back to the highway in Runyenjes.
The bridge has partially collapsed at a time when the area has received heavy downpours leading to flooding.
While the bridge remains risky, motorists have continued to use the busy highways as it is the main link to Meru and other parts of the country.
This came a day after Interior Cabinet Secretary Kithure Kindiki warned that Kenyans using endangered infrastructure would be persecuted.
According to the Ministry of Interior, crossing a faulty bridge or flooded path is attempted suicide or murder.
Over 140 Kenyans have lost their lives due to the intense downpour that has been witnessed in the country for the month of April.
The largest tragedy happened in Mai Mahiu where 45 people were confirmed to have died due to flash floods.
Reports indicate that the floods were caused after a makeshift dam under a railway tunnel broke its banks sweeping houses as well as vehicles that had been stuck in traffic.
The national government has urged Kenyans to exercise caution especially in areas adversely affected by floods.
