KeNHA reopens Kaplong–Kisii road after closure

The Kenya National Highways Authority has reopened the Kaplong–Kisii road to motorists after floodwaters that had submerged a key bridge receded.

In a public notice issued on March 12, the authority said the road section is now accessible following repairs and safety checks at the Kipsonoi River Bridge at Mugeni.

“The Kaplong–Kisii road is now open to traffic,” KeNHA said in the notice.

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The road had been closed on March 7 after rising water levels at the Kipsonoi River Bridge, between Sotik and Chebilat, overtopped the structure following heavy rains upstream, making it unsafe for vehicles to cross.

KeNHA director general Luka Kimeli said the authority had since confirmed the structural integrity of the bridge before allowing traffic to resume.

“The authority is on the ground for minor repairs caused by the water after confirming the structural integrity of the bridge,” he said.

However, motorists have been cautioned to approach the bridge with care due to the possibility of renewed flooding caused by storm water flowing from upstream sections of the river.

“The authority appeals to motorists to approach the bridge section with caution as there could be possible flooding due to storm water upstream of Kipsonoi River,” KeNHA said.

During the closure, motorists travelling to Chebilat and Keroka were advised to use the Kaplong–Sotik–Roret–Ikonge–Chebilat–Keroka route, while those heading to Kisii were redirected through the Kaplong–Sotik–Roret–Ikonge–Kisii road.

The authority had deployed traffic police and road marshals to the affected area to manage traffic and ensure motorists adhered to safety instructions while the flooding persisted.

Kimeli said the agency had been working around the clock to restore normal traffic movement along the affected highway.

“KeNHA assures all road users that it is working around the clock to restore normal traffic flow and ensure the safety of motorists,” he said.

The authority reiterated that ensuring safe and efficient movement of people and goods remains a priority.

“We remain committed to ensure seamless connectivity to facilitate safe passage of goods and services for economic prosperity,” KeNHA said.

The heavy rains have recently triggered flooding in several parts of the country, affecting transport networks particularly in low-lying areas and along major rivers.