The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) on Wednesday announced the temporary closure of the Nairobi Southern Bypass.
In a statement, the authority revealed that the closure will take effect beginning Wednesday, December 27 through to January 23 to pave the way for the installation of a virtual weighbridge.
"The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) wishes to notify the Public that a section of the Nairobi Southern Bypass (both bounds) between Lang'ata Interchange and Ngong Interchange will be closed," read part of the statement.
KENHA, however, stated that the closure will involve one lane of each carriageway at a time to minimise disruption.
The authority, therefore, advised motorists to use one lane of each carriageway as directed. Motorists and road users were further advised to be cautious while approaching the area and follow traffic rules.
The Nairobi Southern Bypass was selected for a revamp which includes the installation of weighbridges to reduce the number of accidents on the road.
In October, KENHA advertised a tender asking qualified individuals to set up virtual weighbridges across the country to enhance the monitoring of loads and minimise road damage.
Besides the Southern Bypass, other stretches set for an upgrade include; Sagana (two), Kamulu, Yatta, Eldoret, Mayoni, Ahero, Kaloleni, Sabaki, Emali, Laisamis, Madogo, Mwatate, Kibwezi, Malili and Salgaa roads.
Others were Kajiado, Makutano, Mukumu, Cheptiret, Malaba, Eldama Ravine, Meru and Kamagambo.
The virtual weighbridges will have sensors, loops, scanners, Automative Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, overview cameras, and CCTV. This will enable the authority to remotely monitor the road.
KENHA is banking on virtual weighbridges to reduce the number of over-loaded vehicles that end up damaging roads resulting in the spending of more public resources on repairs.
Kenya became the first country to introduce virtual weighbridges in 2018, a move informed by the need to enhance road safety.
