By Patricia Mollyne Mataga
The Kenya Railways Authority has halted operations for its commuter train services in Nairobi.
In a statement on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, the agency said the decision follows the ongoing heavy rains pounding parts of the city and nearby areas.
According to Kenya Railways, the rains have lead to floodings, which have subsequently affected part of its rail services.
However, the agency said the halting of the passenger service operation was temporary.
“We wish to notify members of the public that commuter train services have been temporarily suspended due to the ongoing heavy rains that have affected the rail lines,” the authority said in part of the statement.
It also noted that the decision was made for the sake of the safety of its customers.
“We are compelled to take these precautionary measures because the safety of our customers is always of paramount importance to us,” it added.
While apologizing for any inconvenience the decision might have caused to the customers, the authority said it will advice once normal services resume.
Kenya Railways operates commuter rail service across the city.
It has routes stretching from Nairobi to Syokimau, Lukenya, Ruiru, Embakasui and Limuru.
The agency also runs the Safari train that plies to Kisumu, Nanyuki and the coastal region.
Several parts of Nairobi have reported flooding, with many people left stranded.
Kenya Red Cross early on Wednesday listed at least a dozen of estates that had been affected by the floods.
Among the areas that have experienced flash floods, according to Kenya Red Cross Society include Mukuru, Mathare, Huruma, Ruaraka, Baba Dogo, Bosnia, Umoja 3, Choka, Njiru, Ruai, Utawala, Githurai, Kahawa, Eastern Bypass, Kinoo, Kijabe, Limuru, Ruiru, Graceland, Joska, Kaswito, Kicheko, Mangili, Kenyatta Road, Juja, Kitengela, and Magadi.
“The Athi River has also burst its banks, accelerating the impacts. Roads and bridges are affected, leading to heavy traffic on major roads,” the humanitarian agency said.
