The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) now plans to set up a Sh7.3 billion Nairobi Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) Line 5 along Outer Ring Road.
The project will be ready in the next two years, as part of the government's concerted efforts to modernize the country’s urban transportation network.
"The project which is valued at approximately Sh7.3 billion (Usd56 million) is funded from a loan from Korean Exim Bank," KURA Director General Silas Kinoti said.
"Once implemented, the project will provide an efficient, environmentally friendly and affordable mode of transport for Eastland’s residents commuting from Taj Mall all the way to Allsops connecting Thika Road."
The plan was revealed during a stakeholder consultative meeting at the Deputy County Commissioner’s Office, in Embakasi Sub County.
KURA said advertisement for construction bids for 10.4 kilometres stretch will close by the end of October and construction will commence in January 2025.
The road will include civil works like dedicated lanes, five bridges, a 1.4-metre underpass, and 10 BRT stations, among other infrastructural developments.
The authority added that the project will also cover basic and detailed design of various aspects, such as dedicated BRT lanes, traffic management systems, and an efficient passenger information system. Other amenities will include bus depots and vehicle charging centres for Electric vehicles (EVs).
"Additionally, the stations will be equipped with advanced technology, including vehicle location tracking/surveillance systems, and fare collection equipment. The entire line will feature a Vehicle Enforcement System (VES) and CCTV surveillance to ensure maximum safety for passengers," KURA added.
The project, according to the authority is designed to address some of the key challenges Nairobi faces, including traffic congestion and high carbon emissions.
It will also help in improving mobility accessibility and safety for Kenyans.
Other benefits include reduced travel times making the system attractive for daily commuters who need a fast and reliable way to navigate the city.
KURA said the project will offer cost-effective transport, as well as job creation and skills development.
In May 2022, KURA awarded a Sh583 million consultancy contract to a Korean consortium, led by Kunhwa engineering company.
Through the consultancy, company would undertake a detailed engineering design, provide assistance during identification of the contractor, construction supervision and support, during the defects liability period.
BRT is part of the Nairobi Integrated Urban Development Master Plan, which is being implemented to end vehicular congestion in the CBD.
