Following a dramatic traffic accident involving two fuel tankers and a subsequent fire outbreak, the Nairobi Southern Bypass (Mombasa Road bound) was temporarily closed on January 24, 2026.
According to the statement released by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the crash happened when a fuel tanker lost control and went down from the elevated section of the Southern Bypass onto the road below after the accident. The fuel tanker then caught fire. A huge fire and explosion hazard was created in this way.
KeNHA together with fire and emergency response teams, closed the incident area of the bypass to carry out fire containment and security operations, in the wake of the accident. As emergency teams were working on the fire, traffic police secured the area to avoid risks. The authorities announced that they expect the traffic disruption to continue until the fire is completely under control.
The public has been advised not to use the Southern Bypass until further directions. Those who are using Mombasa Road have been diverted through Langata Road and other road users have been given alternative routes to use and expected delays on the surrounding roads.
KeNHA further warned the general public not to go near the scene of the accident, emphasizing that the risk of fire due to fuel is extremely hazardous. People living and driving around the area were advised to be watchful of smoke, limited movement due to road closures, and emergency operations and to obey the directions given by the police and emergency personnel at all times.
In a press statement, KeNHA expressed sorrow for the inconvenience caused to motorists and gave the public assurance that all the necessary steps are being taken to bring the situation back to normal in terms of safety and traffic flow as soon as possible. The authority also said that additional information would be given as the situation unfolds.
