The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has advised Kenyans to exercise caution and plan their journeys in advance amid heavy traffic along major roads, including the Nairobi-Nakuru highway.
KeNHA Director General Luka Kimeli, on Sunday, December 21, reiterated that early planning was necessary to allow adequate travel time, particularly for those travelling for long distances.
Kimeli also urged motorists who intend to use roads that are currently experiencing gridlock to consider using available alternative routes to reduce the congestion.
The KeNHA boss further called on motorists to observe posted speed limits and avoid speeding. He similarly urged drivers to observe and obey traffic signs, maintain lane discipline, avoid overlapping, and avoid reckless overtaking.
Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators and drivers were also directed to adhere to approved passenger capacity limits and observe designated pick-up and drop-off points.
"All drivers should be well-rested before embarking on their journeys and remain sober and fit to drive at all times," Kimeli emphasised.
"The Authority wishes to assure the public of the continued commitment to ensure a safe, smooth, and secure holiday travel experience for all road users," he added.
Kimeli's directives come on the back of a huge traffic snarl-up along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, which has now entered its fourth day due to the festive season rush.
The congestion has been largely caused by lane congestion and overlapping by some motorists, which has resulted in the highway being blocked in both lanes.
The worst-affected areas were reported to be the Mai Mahiu stretch in Naivasha and the Salgaa-Mau Summit section, where vehicles were seen moving at a slow pace.
Footage obtained by Kenyans.co.ke showed several vehicles, including buses, personal vehicles and trailers, lined up along the highway.
However, President William Ruto has since vowed to dual the 175-kilometre highway with expansion works currently underway at the Rironi section.
