Motorists using Eldoret Road in Nairobi will have to continue using alternative routes after the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) extended the closure of a section of the road. This closure has significant implications for daily commuters and transport services in the area, as Eldoret Road serves as a vital artery for traffic flow in and out of Nairobi.
In a public notice, KURA said the closure, which was initially scheduled to run until September 18, 2026, has now been extended to 6pm on Wednesday, December 30, 2026. The decision to extend the closure reflects the authority's commitment to ensuring that the construction work is carried out effectively and safely, despite the challenges faced.
The affected section is being closed to facilitate the construction of a vehicular bridge across the Nairobi River. This bridge is expected to alleviate traffic congestion in the long term and improve connectivity for residents and businesses in the surrounding areas. The construction of the bridge is part of a broader initiative to enhance urban infrastructure in Nairobi, which has been grappling with increasing traffic demands due to population growth and urbanization.
According to KURA, the extension was necessitated by unforeseen logistical and site-related challenges encountered during the construction works. These include delays in the delivery of critical construction materials and equipment, which the authority said were beyond the contractor’s control. Such delays can often arise from various factors, including supply chain disruptions and adverse weather conditions, which have been particularly challenging in recent months.
KURA said it remains committed to completing the project while meeting the required safety and quality standards within the revised timeline. The authority has emphasized the importance of maintaining high construction standards to ensure the bridge will serve its intended purpose effectively and safely for years to come.
Motorists have been urged to continue using the alternative routes provided in the traffic management plan and to follow directions from traffic police officers and road marshals. These alternative routes have been strategically identified to minimize inconvenience for drivers and to ensure that traffic flows smoothly during the extended closure.
The authority also said the existing traffic arrangements will remain in place throughout the extended closure period. KURA has reassured the public that it is actively monitoring the situation and will provide updates as necessary, as it aims to complete the construction project in a timely manner while keeping the public informed.
