KeNHA Closes Road Indefinitely After Public Uproar

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced the closure of theMarigat-Loruk highway following flooding that affected a section of the road.
In a statement on Thursday, August 21, the Authority attributed the heavy flooding to the fast-rising water levels of Lake Baringo.
This follows days ofheavy rains received in the area over the weekendthrough to this week, causing a rise in the water levels at the lake and subsequently causing a spill-over.
While making the announcement, KeNHA called on motorists planning to use the road to seek alternative routes, including the diversion at the  Loruk-Chemalingot road.
The Authority cautioned road users, including pedestrians and motorists, against attempting to use the affected section of the road in the interest of their safety.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and advise when the water levels recede. The Authority remains committed to ensuring seamless connectivity to facilitate the safe passage of goods and services for economic prosperity,” KeNHA announced.
The closure followed an uproar from area residents who had urged KeNHA to intervene and provide alternative routes, warning that the highway risked being completely cut off.
“Currently, the water levels inside the lake have increased, and it is filling, closing the road. The water levels in the lake began rising in June this year,” said a resident.
Besides causing road destruction, theresidents also warned that the rising levels of water in Lake Baringocould prompt attacks from water animals such as hippos and crocodiles.
“I live within this area, and going to the shop to purchase things is now a huge problem. Children cannot go to school because of the hippos and crocodiles,” added another resident.
KeNHA’s latest advisory also comes just days after it announced a temporary traffic disruption along the same route due to the planned construction of a box culvert.
In a notice issued on August 15, the Authority stated that the disruption would last for six months and urged motorists to seek alternative routes.