Bridge Expansion on Ol Kalou-Nyahururu Highway to Begin August 2026

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) revealed intentions to widen the structure crossing River Ngarenaro close to Nyahururu Town, targeting enhanced security for travelers on the Ol Kalou-Nyahururu route. While inspecting the bridge on May 19, KeNHA Board Chairperson Winfrida Ngumi indicated that the procurement process for this initiative should conclude within three months, following which construction activities will commence. She clarified that the enhancement will incorporate building walkways on both sides of the carriageway, plus extra room for foot travelers and motorcycle taxi operators to utilize the crossing securely. “In the coming three months, we will finalize procurement for this crossing to construct walkways on both sides of the road and expand areas for pedestrians and non-motorized vehicles, guaranteeing protection for children utilizing the passage and allocating room for motorcycle taxis to cross safely,” Ngumi stated. Over a four-year period, local inhabitants have identified the structure, situated on the dividing line between Nyandarua and Laikipia counties, as a hazardous crossing area because of restricted areas for pedestrians and non-motorized transport, pointing to regular collisions along the congested section. Peter Kihara, an Igwamiti local, mentioned that children frequently find it challenging to cross securely and occasionally end up falling into the river because of the lack of an appropriate footpath. Student pedestrians described challenges faced when traversing the roadway, explaining that they regularly must wait for vehicles to pass because of obscured visibility and restricted crossing areas. Njoroge Kimita, a Gatimu resident, additionally noted that the crossing has seen numerous incidents throughout the years, some resulting in fatalities, and urged swift intervention to stop additional loss of life. “For numerous years, we have encountered problems with this crossing along the Ol Kalou-Nyahururu highway, and we have been appealing to KeNHA to build a walkway for us as we have lost lives, experienced fatal incidents, and sustained serious injuries,” he stated. He observed that the circumstances are especially perilous when traffic is most intensive for both pedestrians and drivers. “Typically in the morning, between 6:30 and 7:30 am, when there is substantial movement of both pedestrians and vehicles, you consistently encounter either minor or serious collisions here. It has transformed into a deadly hazard,” he clarified. Travelers can anticipate improvements as KeNHA reiterated its pledge to start construction focused on increasing safety for drivers, pedestrians, and bicycle users.