Traffic in Nairobi was thrown into chaos Saturday morning after an electric pole came down on Ronald Ngala Street, severely affecting both public and private transport.
The pole, which supports overhead power cables, leaned dangerously, blocking matatus from accessing the Tusker bus park opposite Naivas Supermarket. Its fall also damaged a newly-installed Nairobi City County dustbin, a street lighting unit, and an advertising billboard.
Commuters and drivers had to adjust quickly. Vehicles approaching from Uyoma Street were forced to take a diversion at the CGHU Temple, then navigate Ronald Ngala Street to reach the CBD via River Road through Taveta Road or reroute through Racecourse Road and Landhies Road back to Jogoo Road.
Among the hardest hit were matatus plying the Nairobi–Umoja–Kayole route, as well as vehicles from Kangundo Road that typically access the CBD through Jogoo Road. Cars from Embakasi, Pipeline, and Tassia using Ronald Ngala Street to connect to Tom Mboya Street also experienced significant delays. In contrast, Nairobi–Thika Road route matatus picking passengers outside Naivas Supermarket kept a safe distance from the hanging cables and faced minimal disruption.
Pedestrians were observed ducking under the sagging power lines while going about their errands, seemingly unaware of the extreme danger. Fallen or leaning poles with low-hanging wires present a severe risk of electrocution, fires, and even death. Energized cables can also trigger power outages, and electricity can travel through vehicles, water, or the ground, spreading the risk.
Authorities urge the public to maintain a safe distance from downed or hanging power lines, avoid touching them or any objects in contact with them, and immediately report such hazards to utility companies or emergency services.
Nairobi residents are advised to remain vigilant as repairs continue and traffic diversions stay in place until the area is made safe.
