The Motorists Association of Kenya (MAK) on Sunday, April 14, called for the construction of a bridge in the Salama area of Makueni County.
This was after a heavy downpour on Saturday which rendered the road linking Nairobi to Mombasa impassable.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, MAK Chairperson Peter Murima remarked that a bridge was needed to prevent an imminent tragedy.
“In Kenya, we rarely have bridges on our roads. What is prominent is drifts which are assembled rocks to enable water to pass underneath,” he explained.
At a time when Kenya is experiencing increased accidents, Murima remarked that such scenarios would worsen the situation further.
“The floods are a danger, especially to motorists driving under the influence. While what they do is wrong it does not mean we put them in more danger,” he explained.
In yesterday’s incident, transport was disrupted in the region after the Kiu River swelled and broke its banks.
While the volumes receded afterwards, there are fears the road will become flooded again due to Kenya Met warning of prolonged rains.
Kenyans living in low-lying areas have been advised to relocate while motorists have been urged to drive with caution.
The United Nations estimates that 13 people have died and 15,000 displaced due to the increased rains in Kenya since mid-March.
One of the areas heavily affected is Kisumu County where over 200 households have been forced to relocate.
Red Cross and other emergency service handlers are on high alert to handle incidents such as landslides, sudden floods, and obstructions on roads promptly.
