Motorists using the Emali-Isineti (A5) Road should prepare for slower journeys over the next three weeks after the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) announced a temporary partial closure of a section of the highway near Simba Cement to pave the way for the installation of a drainage culvert.
The authority said the traffic changes will take effect from Friday, July 24, and remain in place until Thursday, August 13, as contractors carry out works at an existing natural drainage channel crossing the road.
In a public notice issued on Friday and signed by KeNHA Director General Eng. Luka Kimeli, the authority said the project is aimed at improving drainage along the highway while protecting the road from damage caused by surface runoff during heavy rains.
"The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) wishes to notify the public that a section of the Emali-Isineti (A5) Road, in the vicinity of Simba Cement, will be partially closed to traffic from Friday, July 24, to Thursday, August 13, to facilitate the installation of a drainage structure (culvert) across the carriageway at an existing natural channel," the notice stated.
KeNHA said traffic will continue flowing during the construction period through a temporary diversion built next to the affected section.
"During the closure period, traffic will be routed through a temporary diversion, approximately 100 metres in length, constructed alongside the closed section. Traffic will flow on an alternating (single lane) basis as indicated in the diversion plan below."
The authority explained that the temporary arrangement is intended to reduce disruption while allowing the drainage works to proceed safely. Vehicles travelling in both directions will use the diversion in turns under the guidance of police officers and traffic marshals stationed at the site.
KeNHA cautioned motorists to expect delays as traffic will move on an alternating single-lane system throughout the construction period. Road users have been advised to plan their trips early and allow extra travel time, especially during peak hours.
"Motorists are, therefore, advised to exercise caution, adhere to traffic signs, and cooperate with the police officers and traffic marshals on site."
The authority said the temporary traffic plan is expected to remain in place for about three weeks before normal traffic resumes once the drainage structure has been completed.
KeNHA noted that the works are part of routine road maintenance aimed at improving stormwater management along the highway. Culverts help channel water beneath roads, reducing the risk of flooding, erosion and damage to the carriageway during heavy rainfall.
Motorists travelling between Emali and Kimana have been urged to observe speed limits, follow traffic signs and comply with directions issued by police officers and traffic marshals to ensure the safety of both road users and construction workers.
Kimeli also called on motorists and residents to cooperate with the temporary traffic measures, saying the short-term inconvenience is necessary to improve the long-term safety and durability of the Emali-Isineti (A5) Road.