The business community in Thika has welcomed the move to renovate Makongeni Bus Park in Kamenu, Thika sub-county.
The 10,000 square meter bus park that shelters over 100 buses which ply a significant number of routes among them Kitui, Matuu and Thika is currently undergoing renovation works funded by the Kiambu County Government.
Speaking to KNA, the Thika District Business Association chair Alfred Wanyoike termed the move as a windfall for them as it would lead to additional clients and higher income.
“We are pleased that the county government has heeded the call of local residents on an issue that has been the subject of concern to many residents. The renovation will now end the frequent complaints over the dilapidated stature of the bus park,” he noted adding that previously the bus park was inaccessible especially during rainy seasons thus affecting the people who operate their businesses in the park.
Lillian Muthoni a shop keeper and M-pesa agent at the bus park noted that the upgrade would translate in an increase of sales for her business as a result of the human traffic expected to patronise the park after the completion of the renovation works.
“Most customers avoid coming here as there is a lot of dust that makes them unwell. My goods also end up looking dirty and old. During the rainy season, the drainage is bad and the rain water on the ground results in excessive mud that keeps people away. This facelift is right on time especially with the El-Nino rains that are expected in October. I am confident that business will pick up once the renovations are completed,” she said.
James Ndungu an attendant at Mololine Sacco Courier office said he was happy that customers would now be able to access the office easily as they sought to send their parcels countrywide unlike before when they preferred to visit the Thika town office because of the dilapidated state of the bus park.
The scope of work includes excavation of the park grounds, gravelling and laying of cabro stone, installation of solar powered floodlights, public restrooms and designated waste disposal areas. Drainage systems and tarmac walkways around the bus park will also be upgraded.
Construction of contemporary kiosks which will be allocated to the existing park traders free of charge is also underway. The bus park which is one of the largest in Thika is expected to have 200 parking spaces for Public Vehicle Services when complete.
The association called on the County Government to provide proper security measures in the form of a patrol base to provide the business people with much needed security.
By Hellen Lunalo
