Transport was on Saturday paralysed for several hours along Thika-Juja Road in Kiambu County following the collapse of a bridge due to heavy rainfall.
Speaking to the press, the Kiambu-based rescue team stated that the area experienced flooding because of the heavy downpour the previous night affecting the bridge that connects Thika and Juja Constituencies.
The situation escalated when a lorry ferrying building stones to Komo village got trapped at the bridge due to the floods, ultimately causing the crisis that led to the bridge's collapse and the subsequent traffic gridlock.
"We were informed of an accident at the bridge connecting Komo to Juja Farm. When we arrived at the scene, we found that transport was paralysed. We have closed the bridge. We urge (Kiambu Governor Kimani) Wamatangi to intervene in this situation," fire officer Martin Ngugi stated.
Reports indicated that the bridge, constructed with robust metallic components, is no longer safe for use by motorists, who were advised to seek alternative routes to reach their destinations.
The incident highlights the challenges posed by heavy rainfall experienced across the country over recent weeks.
A day earlier, Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) issued a traffic advisory following a landslide at the Meru - Mikinduri - Maua Highway.
In early October, a similar advisory was issued for the Isiolo-Marsabit Highway over flooding at the road, with KeNHA advising motorists to use alternative means.
This past week, photos and videos of vehicles submerged in water in Mombasa also raised concerns over the country's drainage systems and the government's preparation to handle heavy rainfall experienced across the country.
Recently, the Kenya Meteorological Department cautioned the public that over 28 counties would experience heavy rainfall and storms, with some experiencing higher rainfall than usual.
These include; Murang'a, Vihiga, Wajir, Marsabit, Kisii, Migori, Samburu, Kiambu, Kirinyaga, Trans Nzoia, Garissa, Makueni and Elgeyo Marakwet.
Others include; Nandi, Kericho, Mandera, Bungoma, West Pokot, Kilifi, Lamu and Meru.
