Murkomen Issues Directive to KeNHA After Impromptu Visit to Southern Bypass

Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen giving a keynote speech at the Ministerial Session on Investing in Green Transportation at the Africa Climate Summit on September 4, 2023.
Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen giving a keynote speech at the Ministerial Session on Investing in Green Transportation at the Africa Climate Summit on September 4, 2023.
Photo
Kipchumba Murkomen

Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has ordered the deployment of police officers to Southern Bypass to prevent more accidents caused by erection of bumps on the stretch following routine maintenance by a contractor. 

The CS has also ordered the police to monitor motorists to ensure they observe the signage on the road and the set 50 KPH speed limit.

In a statement sent to Kenyans.co.ke on Wednesday, Murkomen said that the move will help preserve the quality of the road and ensure the safety of motorists.

A curve along the Southern Bypass in Nairobi
A curve along the Southern Bypass in Nairobi.
Photo
KeNHA

"The installation of these bumps and reduction of speed to 50 KPH as indicated in the signage and as required in areas under construction will help to preserve the quality of the road and ensure the safety of road users," Murkomen said.

"Police have also been stationed near the construction sites to prevent motorists from speeding beyond the stipulated 50 KPH limit."

"It is worth noting that the ongoing repairs have been slowed down by the huge traffic volumes on the road, which the contractor has to contend with, against the strict timelines set for completion of the maintenance works."

To prevent further accidents, Murkomen also directed Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) to issue a Public Notice to all motorists clearly identifying the sections under maintenance and the stipulated speed limit applicable to those sections.

He also instructed motorists plying the road to adhere to road signage and the set speed limit while approaching the areas under construction. 

Additionally, Transport CS Kiphumba Murkomen gave a status update on the installation of speed cameras along the highways, noting that his Ministry has already rolled out the pilot phase across all major highways.

He expressed confidence that the measures will improve the situation on the highway. 

The directives were made following an impromptu visit by the CS along the Southern Bypass to assess the new bumps erected on the road.

Motorists had lamented that the bumps  which were erected overnight had led to accidents and causing confusion on the stretch.

Accident scene along Southern Bypass (left) and Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen.
Accident scene along Southern Bypass (left) and Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen.
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Transport Ministry
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