A controversial bridge pitting Bobasi Constituency resident in Kisii County and their area MP Innocent Obiri leading to perennial demonstrations over its dilapidated state, has finally turned to a blessing after construction works were completed few weeks ago.
Residents in the area have now applauded the collaboration between their area MP and the government agency, Kenya Rural Roads Agency, for finally allocating funds and constructing the River Nyamache Bridge that now eases movement between the government offices where they seek services, the local health centre, the church and the local shopping centre among others.
The bridge, located at Nyamache shopping center on the Kisii- Igare- Nyamache Road was previously washed away by torrential floods triggering persistent demonstrations over its pathetic state and delays in reconstruction.
Speaking at Nyamache town Sunday, the residents said completion of the bridge had eased movement between the government offices, including the police station, Deputy County Commissioner’s office and the schools on one side, and the Kenya medical Training College, the shopping centre and neighbouring locations on the other.
A bodaboda rider, Steven Nyakundi, explained how they previously used a wooden makeshift bridge to cross the River Nyamache, risking their lives in the process.
He noted that the new bridge was now safe, enabling them to carry out their businesses smoothly with increased clientele.
Samuel Mose, a teacher in a neighbouring school said his movement from home to the school was now easier as he had to use the infrastructure to connect, and the duration to and fro had reduced.
Another resident Vincent Mairura applauded MP Obiri and KERRA for constructing a better bridge saying the injuries inflicted after falling as they crossed the dangerous bridge which was very common, and lack of customers were now a thing of the past.
Giving his update, MP Obiri explained that the bridge had broken down because it had outgrown its lifespan, having been built over 50 years ago.
Obiri regretted that residents had taken long to access ample services including those at the County Development Fund office after the bridge was washed away.
He explained that the delay in building the vital infrastructure was due to delayed allocation of funds.
Obiri described the bridge as one of best in the area, with a lifespan of between 75 to 100 years due to proper workmanship, quality of reinforcement, proper materials like concrete, and security measures.
He noted that although the residents had suffered for long, they now stood to benefit from another bridge crossing the same river near the Nyamache Tea factory after the Kenya Urban Roads Authority moved in to fund the project to complement the one done by KeRRA.
He said the contractor had already put up a sign and was mobilizing materials to ensure construction was completed within 4 to 6 months.
The two bridges, he said cost Sh25m each and they were bound to reduce travel time by 30 to 40 minutes.
He applauded the residents for their patience accusing his opponents of inciting them to discredit him following the delays.
KeRRA contracted Uniplaxy Enterprises Limited to construct the bridge while the contractor commencing the KURA bridge project is Nazco Engineering Limited.
By Jane Naitore
