Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) has embarked on construction of a bridge linking two villages, one in Kangema and Mathioya sub counties.
The bridge will replace a makeshift structure, which residents have been using for a long time risking their lives while crossing river Mathioya.
Last year, Murang’a Woman Representative Sabina Chege sponsored construction of the wooden bridge which many residents criticised saying the facility was putting their lives in danger of slipping into the deep river.
On Tuesday, Chege accompanied by Mathioya MP Peter Kimari launched construction of the Sh6 million bridge, which will see residents of Kiawanduma area cross the river comfortably.
The project will also include construction of an all-weather road to a tune of Sh4 million linking the bridge with newly tarmacked St Mary’s-Gitugi- Mioro road.
Chege said she was moved to seek funds to make a permanent bridge, which will help residents move with ease across the river.
“Am pleased that the government has set aside funds to construct a permanent bridge across the Mathioya river. The bridge will ease mobility of people from both sides.
KeRRA has started to construct the bridge and it will take two months to complete,” Chege said.
Residents claimed that they had been forced to move long distances to access schools and coffee factories due to lack of a bridge.
Coffee farmers from the side of Kangema, have been facing challenges to access their factory located on the Mathioya side.
On his part, Kimari said the bridge will support economic activities across the two sub counties.
He said local residents, for a long time, have been struggling to cross the swollen river, adding that coffee farmers were mostly affected since they could not easily access their factory.
“We laud the Ministry of Transport for giving out the funds which will ensure locals cross the river without challenges,” added Kimari.
A resident Jane Nyambura observed that people from the area have been forced to walk long distances to access health centres.
Nyumbura added that the area has lost some residents who were swept away by the swollen river.
“Construction of the bridge is a big relief for local residents who were faced by difficulties of crossing the river,” added Nyambura.
By Bernard Munyao
