Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has directed the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) to put up dedicated cycling lanes along the Nyeri–Nyahururu Highway following a deadly crash that claimed 16 lives.
Kindiki spoke on Tuesday during an interdenominational requiem service for the victims held at ASK Kabiru-ini Grounds in Nyeri County, where he said the government would move with speed to address safety concerns along the busy stretch.
He directed KeNHA to carry out surveys and assessments on the road within the week as a first step before construction begins.
“We will direct KeNHA to conduct surveys and assessments on this highway next week before construction begins, to enhance safety and prevent further loss of life,” he said.
The Deputy President noted that the proposal for cycling lanes was raised by Nyeri Governor Mutahi Kahiga, citing the high number of school-going children and cyclists who use the road daily.
“Gavana ameomba mambo ya cycling lane katika hiyo mahali kwa sababu kuna wanafunzi wengi na cyclist wengi na mimi nimekubali cyclist wapate mahali iko sawa,” he said.
Kindiki said the county government will work closely with KeNHA to fast-track the project, adding that funding will be set aside once the assessment is complete.
“Baada ya kufanya survey, tutatafuta pesa ya kujenga hiyo cycling lane. Hatuwezi kosa pesa jameni. Governor will follow up with you next week so that KeNHA can come and help us with that solution,” he added.
At the same time, he blamed rising cases of indiscipline among motorists for the increasing number of road accidents, pointing to overspeeding, reckless driving and the use of unroadworthy vehicles.
“There is high negligence among drivers. Most overspeed and drive carelessly, while others are using unroadworthy vehicles. If drivers control their speed, we will save many lives on our roads,” he said.
The Nyeri–Nyahururu Highway is among key routes in the Mt. Kenya region, serving both local commuters and long-distance transport, with safety concerns having been raised repeatedly following a series of fatal accidents.