Residents of Liwatoni in Mvita Sub-County have raised alarm over the deteriorating condition of a key link road to their estate, saying it has caused endless traffic snarl-ups and frequent damage to motor vehicles.
The Tangana road is riddled with deep potholes filled with murky stagnant water, making movement difficult for both motorists and pedestrians.
Drivers have to cautiously manoeuvre through the dangerous section of the road to avoid sinking into concealed craters, while pedestrians are forced to tiptoe along the edges to pass safely.
The situation is worsened by an ageing railway line that cuts across the road, creating a rough and uneven crossing that further disrupts traffic flow.
Heavy trucks from manufacturing firms, motorcycles, tuk-tuks and private vehicles are forced to slow down drastically as they navigate the dangerous stretch.
The residents, led by Sheikh Hassan Omar, lamented that their appeals to authorities have fallen on deaf ears, with agencies shifting responsibility from one office to another, despite the road remaining in a deplorable state for more than a year.
The residents are now appealing to the authorities to fast-track the rehabilitation of the road, warning that they may stage demonstrations if urgent action is not taken.
“This is the only road leading to Liwatoni and there is no alternative route for residents. It has been in a deplorable condition for a year now,” Sheikh Omar said, adding that efforts to follow up with the authorities have not borne fruit as residents continue to incur high vehicle maintenance costs.
He noted that it was shameful for the Port City to have such a dilapidated road, accusing leaders of turning a blind eye to the plight of residents instead of championing development.
“We live in despair. Sometimes moving out at night during health emergencies becomes difficult because of insecurity in the area and the poor state of the road. We are reminding the authorities of their responsibilities; we are not begging,” stated Sheikh Omar.
Dr. Jalab Ashraf, another resident, said the road had remained dilapidated for a year, with potholes filled with water deep enough to be mistaken for wells, causing havoc to vehicles.
“The traffic, which is supposed to flow in two directions, is now limited to one side, causing heavy congestion and inconvenience. Several accidents have already occurred here because of the poor state of the road,” said Dr. Ashraf.
“We have complained repeatedly, sent messages to different government stakeholders, but we have not received any meaningful response. We are urging both the County and National governments to take the necessary action and repair this road. We are taxpayers and deserve better services,” he said.
Al Amin Somo faulted the area’s elected leaders, including the Member of County Assembly and Member of Parliament, accusing them of failing to represent the grievances of their constituents in both the County and National Assemblies.
By Sadik Hassan
