Thika,
Tuesday, May 7, 2024
KNA by Muoki Charles
Thika MP Alice Ng’ang’a has called on the government to prioritize repairing the Oldonyo Sabuk Bridge which connects Machakos County and the lower parts of Kiambu that was swept away last week after Athi River burst its banks.
The MP said the bridge was among the most important infrastructure connecting the two counties and since it was swept away, trade and other socio-economic activities between those areas have been cut.
Speaking during a tour to monitor the flood situation in the area, the MP said should the rains subside, works for the construction of the bridge should commence for normalcy to resume.
She added that in the event schools reopened for the second term, it would be difficult for learners from either side to cross to the other side of the river.
The bridge connects Tala market in Machakos and Kilimambogo in Kiambu and was swept away by flood waters early last week following heavy rains pounding several parts of the country.
Ms. Nganga at the same time called on the Ministry of Roads to ensure they have earmarked all bridges that have been swept by the floods for repairs once the rains subside.
“The Ministry’s budget should now be directed towards the fixing of broken roads and bridges. In my constituency, the Oldonyo Sabuk Bridge should be the priority,” Ms. Nganga said.
Residents led by Peter Mutua echoed the MPs remarks saying their economic activities have been halted as they could not cross the other side of the river.
Mutua, who owns a farm on the other side of the river, said for the past one week, they have kept off despite the need to have it tilled.
Matatu drivers and bodaboda riders who ply the road too claimed that the cutting off of transport in the area has affected their business.
“This is one of the most important bridges in this area. The floods have completely cut interactions and affected our business. We hope a new bridge will be constructed once the rains subside for normalcy to resume,” said Eric Nduva, a matatu driver.
Courtesy; KNA