The Cabinet has given its approval for the dualling of the 20.2km Nairobi’s Northern Bypass to ease traffic congestion in the Nairobi metropolitan area.
The approval now sets on motion the key infrastructure project connecting the Western and Eastern Bypasses from Ruaka in Kiambu to Ruiru, the Northern Bypass stands out as Nairobi’s only remaining single-carriageway bypass.
The approval came after a Cabinet meeting chaired by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi, on Tuesday.
A statement released after the meeting indicates a significant upgrade, with the project transforming the current single carriageway into a dual carriageway. The expansion will also feature the construction of eight interchanges, overpasses, and underpasses and the addition of non-motorised transport facilities.
The project will also encompass the development of non-motorised transport facilities such as walkways and cycle paths, improved drainage, and enhancements to adjacent roads.
The upgrade will reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and enhance road safety. Furthermore, it’s set to boost access to economic hubs, industrial zones, and essential services in Nairobi and Kiambu counties.
Peak hour congestion on the bypass leads to frustrating travel delays, higher transport expenses, increased pollution, and a drop in productivity.
The Cabinet also gave its approval for the Nairobi Railway City Central Station and Public Realm Project, a scheme specifically designed to ease congestion in the capital and breathe new life into the central business district.
This flagship project, as stated by the government, is seen as essential for attracting private investment to the Railway City. It will upgrade the outdated Railways Central Station into a cutting-edge, multi-modal transport hub, playing a key role in Nairobi’s wider urban transformation.
The modernised station will boast nine platforms and upgraded access bridges, allowing it to efficiently handle the evacuation of up to 30,000 people per hour.
Backed by secured funding, the project will facilitate key transport links such as BRT Line 3, various commuter rail lines, and a Standard-Gauge Railway connection to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The project will create jobs, spur urban regeneration, and foster sustainable growth. It will position the station as Nairobi’s premier transport interchange, symbolising the city’s forward-looking urban vision.
By Hellen Lunalo
