Transport CS James Macharia on Tuesday, December 24, was forced to intervene after the closure of a section of Thika Superhighway.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) had declared that a section of the busy road would be partially closed from Sunday, December 22 to Tuesday, December 24, to allow for the erection of a footbridge at Witeithie.
However, a number of motorists complained that it was a bad decision since many Kenyans were travelling for the Christmas festivities.
"Surely on a sober note, is it logic for KeNHA to close Thika Superhighway on December 24, morning when people are travelling?? I pity the thinking and poor planning," Stephen Muriithi complained.
In response, the CS ordered the postponement of the construction works.
"We have directed that the contractor stops the works until after Boxing Day, and then only work from 10 pm to 4 am," the CS stated.
On its part, KeNHA apologised to motorists, announcing that the section of the road had since been opened after the CS's order.
"At Witeithie, the contractor notified that they had experienced a hiccup when hoisting superstructure for the pedestrian footbridge last night.
"This greatly affected traffic flow for Thika-bound traffic, causing massive traffic jam," read part of the statement by KeNHA.
