The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a significant temporary traffic disruption at the Gitaru interchange, a key junction on the A8 (Waiyaki Way) where the Southern Bypass intersects with the Western Bypass.
The disruption is scheduled to begin on Thursday, August 29, 2024, and continue until Monday, October 7, 2024.
In a notice dated August 23, 2024, KeNHA said the disruption is necessitated by ongoing construction work at the Southeastern loop of the Gitaru interchange, part of a broader infrastructure development initiative aimed at improving traffic flow in and around Nairobi.
“This traffic disruption is due to scheduled road works for construction of the Southeastern loop of Gitaru Interchange, which is currently ongoing,” KeNHA said.
The Gitaru interchange connects some of the city’s most vital transportation routes, and the planned works are expected to significantly enhance connectivity in the long term.
Changes in traffic flow
Vehicles travelling from Nakuru to the Southern Bypass will be rerouted at the Regen/Magana Interchange, located approximately 3 kilometres from Gitaru. From there, they can proceed to the Southern Bypass.
Vehicles moving from the Western Bypass towards Nairobi via Waiyaki Way will need to take the slip road at the Sea Magu underpass to Gitaru Market, proceed to Mlango Soko, and then connect to the slip road joining at Rungiri.
Vehicles travelling from Nairobi to Ndenderu will be required to turn at the Muguku interchange to access the Western Bypass.
Vehicles from the Southern Bypass heading to Nairobi will turn left at the slip road and then take a U-turn onto Nairobi/Waiyaki Way.
KeNHA has assured the public that several key routes will remain unaffected during this period, including:
1. Southern Bypass to Western Bypass
2. Western Bypass to Southern Bypass
3. Nakuru/Mai Mahiu to Western Bypass
4. Nairobi to Southern Bypass
The temporary traffic management measures are designed to minimize inconvenience while ensuring the safety of road users during the construction period.
KeNHA has urged motorists to exercise patience and cooperate with traffic marshals who will be deployed to assist in managing the flow of vehicles through the affected areas.
This infrastructure project is part of Kenya’s broader strategy to address Nairobi’s chronic traffic congestion, which has long been a source of frustration for residents and visitors alike.
Upon completion, the improved interchange is expected to significantly reduce travel times and enhance the efficiency of transport within the city and its environs.
The public is advised to plan their journeys accordingly and stay informed of any further updates from KeNHA as the work progresses.