The construction of the Ksh17 billion Nairobi-Western Bypass has been delayed due to the complex land acquisition processes that Kiambu residents affected by the 16.7 kilometre road have instituted.
This is according to the Chinese contractor working on the project who decried that the problem was further compounded by the encroachment of road reserve by locals.
The project which was launched in March 2019 is currently 46.9 percent complete according to the project manager, Erick Yu.
It includes the construction of seven grade interchanges at Gitaru, Lower Kabete, Wangige, Kihara, Ndenderu, Rumenye, and Ruaka, as well as the construction of ten overpasses and five underpasses.
Charles Keter, CS Energy, and Aden Mohammed CS of the East African Community toured the project yesterday on a directive issued by the President.
"We have been directed by the President to leave our offices, go to the field and ensure that all Government projects are progressing accordingly," Stated Charles.
It was brought to their attention that land grab is the main challenge. A report by the China Road and Bridge Corporation contractors, Covid 19 had also contributed to the delay in the progress of the project.
It runs along Gitaru Road on the northeast and turns near Ndederu town on the southeast ending at the Two Rivers mall roundabout on the Northern bypass.
Githua Wamacukuru, Kabete MP in 2020 expressed concerns as many businesses have been affected making it hard for the owners to make ends meet. He, therefore, called for speed in the construction over woes by business owners who were affected.
Paul Maringa, Roads, Infrastructure and Housing Principal Secretary has been monitoring the progress of the project frequently.
He announced that the road plan had been redesigned to accommodate a tunnel at Wangige Town.
The 2km tunnel will gear traffic away from the highway thus the towns' economic activities, growth, operations, and development would continue uninterrupted. Maringa also added that upgrading of roads would steer economic growth in addition to alleviating traffic.
The dual carriageway which will be approximately 15.3 kilometers and 17.31 kilometers of service roads will have pedestrian barriers to ensure that no pedestrian crossings occur at the non-authorized areas.
Box culverts and stormwater drainage systems will also be installed in designated areas.
On completion, a bus park will be constructed at Wangige which will also boost public transport efficiency. Adequate bus bays at all the major existing commercial centers and settlement areas will be availed.
