Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has announced that the plans to redesign the infamous Nithi Bridge remain on track.
His remarks come hours after another deadly accident at the black spot on Saturday, August 31, that claimed 12 lives; nine women, two children and a male driver.
Speaking at Mikumbune MCK Church in Meru, Gachagua announced he had spoken to Joseph Mbugua, the Principal Secretary for Roads, who assured him that the design work for the Nithi Bridge is nearly completed.
"Regarding the Nithi Bridge, it is true—we promised this. When I stepped outside, I called PS Engineer Mbugua, and he informed me that the designs are almost done. I have urged him to expedite the process so that we can fulfill our promise to the people of Meru," said Gachagua.Notably, over 2,000 people have lost their lives in road accidents on the aforementioned bridge.
The latest accident that claimed 12 lives involved a multiple-vehicle collision at the bridge along the Meru-Embu Road.
The initial crash involved a miraa pick-up and a 14-seater matatu travelling from Meru to Nairobi.
The matatu reportedly lost its brakes, resulting in a head-on collision with the miraa pick-up, which was heading to Meru from Nairobi.
After this collision, the matatu lost control, veered off the road, and struck an oncoming Hilux pickup.
Shortly after, a Toyota Sienta, heading towards Mitheru and also experiencing brake failure, crashed into a stalled milk lorry at the accident scene.
Eyewitnesses said the impact was so devastating that bodies were strewn across the road.