• The county had already done more than 800km in the last one year
• Roads executive says the projects will boost transport, security and development
Image: MATHEWS NDANYI
Governor Jonathan Bii's administration is aiming to improve more than 1,200km of roads in Uasin Gishu county during the current financial year.
This will be an addition to the more than 800km which the county has graded in the last one year.
Roads executive Joseph Lagat says they will implement different road infrastructure projects to enhance the transportation of goods and services, security and development.
He says the new works will also include installing new culverts, box culverts and bridges that are durable and can last for many years.
“In our plan, installation of culverts and box culverts is an essential component of the county infrastructure to allow water to flow properly without destroying roads and other transport corridors,” Lagat said.
Among the ongoing projects initiated by Bii’s administration are the construction of Ketiplong -Bindura in Tulwet Chuiyat ward, Kesses subcounty and the construction of Koisagat-Kapsabul Box culvert in Segero Barsombe.
The county is also grading the Kesses Market road in Tulwet Chuiyat ward, Kesses subcounty.
To help areas hit hard by recent rains, the county is also opening blocked drainages and waterways to allow for free flow of water.
Lagat urged residents to take the necessary precautions during this period of heavy downpours to reduce damages and other disasters due to floods.
“We have done all we can to prepare for the expected El Nino rains and have our roads, especially in rural areas, in good condition,” Lagat said.
He said opening of blocked natural water waterways and drainage systems will continue, and that the government has put in place other emergency measures to help residents during the El Nino rains.
Lagat said the county roads machinery has been deployed in different subcounties to repair damages on roads and property during the ongoing heavy rains that have been accompanied by hailstones, strong winds and stormwater in some parts.
Governor Bii has been visiting various parts of the county to inspect the ongoing projects.
He says his administration is implementing various infrastructure projects to promote a 24-hour economy and improve the livelihoods of residents.
Among the projects is the ongoing installation of high masts floodlights to improve security by providing lighting and maintaining streetlights across the entire county, especially at trading centres.
“Our intention is to ensure we have all or roads in good shape so as to support the farming and business community,” Bii said.
"And also to ensure we have adequate lighting on all our roads so that residents can operate freely at any time."