Matatu operators plying the Narok – Maai Mahiu highway have decried huge losses they were incurring following a big crack that has developed a few kilometers from Maai Mahiu town, forcing them to use an alternative route.
The operators led by Narok Line Service Chairman Andrew Mwangi said they incurred over Sh. 400, 000 losses on Sunday alone, as all the vehicles that operate the route kept off the highway.
Mwangi said though the drivers have devised an alternative route, the number of passengers has decreased: “The drivers are forced to use a diversion as they approach Maai Mahiu town, which is very muddy and slippery. This is more expensive and only few passengers are willing to travel,” said Mwangi.
He called on Kenya National Highway Authority (KeNHA) to construct flyovers along the busy highway as cracks appear every rainy season.
Cleopas Mapesa, a truck driver said he has spent two days on the road as he waits for KeNHA to repair the crack.
He feared that most of the trucks transporting perishable goods could incur losses as they are forced to remain on the road. “The big vehicles cannot pass through the diversions, unlike the matatus and other small vehicles that pass easily. We are waiting until KeNHA repairs the road,” said Mapesa.
Kelvin Molo said he was forced to reschedule his journey to Nairobi after the vehicle he was traveling in was forced to stop the journey following the crack. “We call upon KeNHA to repair the road fast so that we can have a smooth traffic flow,” said Molo.
This is not the first time such cracks have occurred along the road. During seasons of high rainfall, the cracks that go as deep as 20 meters occur along the road.
Speaking to KNA over the phone, Narok County Commissioner Isaac Masinde advised motorists plying from the county to Nairobi to use the Narok- Kisiriri- Nakuru highway to Nairobi and those from Kisii region to use the Bomet- Kaplong- Kericho highway to Nairobi.
By Ann Salaton
