Heavy traffic along the Nairobi Nakuru Highway/FILE
The Kenya Police Service (NPS) has given an update on why motorists are still experiencing heavy traffic near the Kijabe area along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway.
However, in an address to the media, NPS spokesperson Dr Resila Onyango attributed the traffic and overlap experienced in the area to an accident that occurred in the area today but affirmed that the highway is now clear.
"Regarding the traffic jam and overlapping near Kijabe that caused traffic to stand still this morning, we wish to update the public that there was an accident at the Magina area at 4am today," Onyango said.
"Which occassioned the snarl up. The same has been processed, and the highway is now clear."
Several people were injured after a bus they were travelling in overturned in the Magina area on Sunday.
The driver of the passenger bus lost control and overturned at Magina, just before Kijabe along the Nairobi - Nakuru Highway.
Those injured were rushed to Kijabe Mission Hospital as police cleared the scene. Police spokeswoman Resila Onyango said the scene has been cleared and traffic is flowing smoothly.
This comes as more Kenyans continued to travel upcountry for the Christmas festivities. This has seen passengers spend hours on the busy Nairobi-Nakuru Highway due to heavy traffic.
In November, the National Transport and Safety Authority announced a Licence Revalidation Exercise for motor vehicle operators beginning November 22, 2024.
The exercise is part of ongoing efforts to ensure road safety and address pressing issues in the transport industry.
The NTSA estimates that approximately 3,000 people lose their lives in road accidents every year, highlighting a serious public safety concern.
Many of these tragic incidents occur on weekends, during festive seasons, and on public holidays, when traffic volumes are typically higher.
Moreover, the hours between 5 PM and 8 AM are considered peak times for accidents, as the combination of reduced visibility and increased fatigue can significantly impair drivers' judgment.
