KeNHA to Begin Reconstruction of Nithi Bridge Blackspot on A9 Corridor
An aerial view of the dangerous stretch of the Meru-Embu A9 road.
The government has indicated plans to eliminate one of the most notorious accident blackspots along the Makutano-Embu-Meru (A9) highway through the realignment and reconstruction of the Nithi Bridge.
The project, to be undertaken by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), seeks to address long-standing safety concerns at the Nithi River crossing, a section widely regarded as dangerous due to its steep gradients, sharp bends and limited visibility.
Over the years, the stretch has recorded several fatal road crashes, raising alarm among motorists, residents and local leaders who have consistently called for urgent intervention by the government.
“The accidents that occur in Nithi Bridge affect people from every part of the country that passes through here,” noted Chuka trader Elizapa Njagi.
“We are thankful to President William Ruto for remembering his election pledge to fix this bridge,” she added.
Through a statement by KeNHA Director General Luka Kimeli, the proposed works will correct structural and geometric deficiencies that have contributed to accidents along the bridge area.
The project will involve the construction of a modern bridge and the improvement of the approach roads to enhance driver visibility, improve vehicle control and significantly reduce the risk of crashes.
“I have witnessed several accidents along this route since 1984, and now I am happy to see the president and his deputy working to change this as they had promised,” said a boda boda operator in Maara. “No one has ever thought of such an initiative in the previous regimes” he added.
Other documents reviewed by journalists show that the agency has kick-started stakeholder sensitisation programmes in Meru and Embu counties, bringing together local administrators and security officials to ensure smooth coordination ahead of the commencement oft the construction process.
Locals say they are encouraged by reports that the contractor has begun mobilising to the site and are hopeful that works will commence without delay.
“As residents here in Muthiru, we are happy to see the contractor bringing his tools and machines to the site”, says Ken, a local within Maara Sub County.
“The beacons they have already placed in designated areas is a good sign to us that the government of William Ruto is keeping its promise. But please, the construction should be hurried so we can enjoy the benefits,” he concluded..
