Following public outcry to erect footbridges and overpasses that allow pedestrians to cross the Nairobi Expressway, the government has called for bids from interested persons.
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) plans to build overpasses in Syokimau, Airtel, and Katani stations to ease pedestrian movement.
According to KeNHA, the changes aim to improve user convenience and pedestrian safety on the expressway.
Notably, the multi-billion project initiated by former President Uhuru Kenyatta was constructed to decongest the Central Business District (CBD) and its environs.
Motorists will easily access the CBD from Westlands or the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) in some proposed changes.
“The new expressway which we built is to ease traffic jam in Nairobi as we better our city in the sun,” Uhuru stated as he opened the road.
After its completion in May 2022, one of the issues raised was pillars erected on the pavement, thus increasing the danger to pedestrians.
“The construction makes it hard for both pedestrians and cyclists to move along the lower-decker road with ease,” argued one of the pedestrians.
Also, in May 2022, a video of school-going children crossing the eight-lane road sparked debate fueling the need to have overpasses.
Notably, while the construction was underway in February 2021, the China Roads Bridge Corporation (CRBC) spared a footbridge at Bellevue along Mombasa Road.
On the other hand, Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen announced a new policy to reduce the number of road carnages involving pedestrians.
“This new policy is to ensure that all roads constructed have non-motorised transport,” the CS stated.
Source: kENYANS.CO.KE