Travel Advisory: Heavy Traffic on Nairobi-Nakuru Highway
Kenyans traveling upcountry for the festive season are being urged to avoid the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway due to significant traffic delays. Many travelers who began their journeys on Friday, December 20, have reported being stranded for hours on the highway.
Traffic Hotspots
St. John Ambulance identified the most congested sections as the stretch between Kimende and Flyover, along with Limuru-Maai Mahiu. Frustrated motorists have been spotted leaving their vehicles by the roadside as they wait for traffic to ease.
“There is heavy traffic congestion along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway between Kimende and Flyover and also along the Limuru-Maai Mahiu stretch. Avoid the area if you can,” St. John Ambulance posted.
Recommended Alternative Routes
Travelers are encouraged to use alternative routes, including the Nairobi-Naivasha and Gilgil roads, to avoid the worst-affected areas.
Road Safety Measures
Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi highlighted the importance of adhering to road safety protocols during this busy travel period. Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers were reminded to obey traffic regulations. Additionally, the government announced intensified highway patrols, enforcement of vehicle roadworthiness, and a crackdown on illegal PSVs.
“These initiatives align with the National Road Safety Goal of reducing road traffic fatalities by 5% before 2028,” Mudavadi explained.
ALERT ⚠️ Avoid Nairobi – Naivasha – Nakuru Highway Luos going back home
Azimio Moses kuria Murima Naivasha Kyiv PAYE Uhuru Kenyatta Russian President Putin Rahul Gandhi Muhoozi Martha Salim Mvurya Lee Kinyanjui #RailaTheAfricaLion pic.twitter.com/iz3xuSa5MW
— Ja Macalder (@Ja_Macalder) December 20, 2024
Rising Travel Costs
Amid travel disruptions, commuters are bracing for increased fares. The Matatu Owners Association attributed the hikes to rising operational costs, including higher prices for spare parts and maintenance, despite recent fuel price reductions.
Albert Karakacha, the association’s president, noted, “Savings on fuel prices are offset by the rising expenses of maintaining vehicles, making fare reductions unfeasible.”
Nairobi-Nakuru Highways is packed. Kenyans have resorted to engaging in extra curricular activities. pic.twitter.com/fXHjORAci8
— Ⓝⓖ’ⓞⓡⓞⓡⓘⓔⓣ🐐🇰🇪 (@baroswahjr) December 20, 2024
Advice to Travelers
Plan your journeys early, explore alternative routes, and maintain patience during this peak travel period to ensure a safe and smoother experience.