The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has provided an update on the ongoing traffic congestion along the A8 highway, particularly between Kariandusi and Nakuru. This section of the highway, a vital transport corridor linking Nairobi to Nakuru and the western region of Kenya, has been plagued by heavy traffic, which persisted through the night, severely impacting vehicle flow.
In a statement released on Monday, KeNHA revealed that the cause of the massive traffic jam was largely due to overlapping and poor driver discipline. These factors have compounded the situation, making it difficult for traffic management teams and the police to effectively restore order. The authority emphasized that motorists’ tendency to overtake unsafely was a primary factor contributing to the delay.
KeNHA urged all road users to adhere to proper driving behavior, specifically discouraging overlapping. This, according to the authority, would significantly ease the work of traffic enforcement teams, who are on the ground managing the situation and working to clear the snarl-up. The statement emphasized that such actions from drivers disrupt efforts to restore a normal flow of traffic.
In light of the ongoing congestion, KeNHA has recommended several alternative routes to alleviate the strain on the A8 highway. Road users are encouraged to use the Gilgil–Olkalou–Dundori–Lanet route or the Flyover–Njambini–Olkalou–Dundori–Lanet route until normal traffic conditions are restored. These detours are expected to offer relief to those who are stranded and seeking to avoid the congested stretch.
The Kariandusi-Nakuru section of the A8 highway has long been known for occasional traffic issues, particularly during peak travel periods. While authorities have not provided a clear timeline for when the congestion will be fully cleared, KeNHA assured the public that enforcement officers would remain at the scene to manage the situation.
KeNHA continues to monitor the traffic flow and will provide further updates as necessary. Motorists are advised to stay informed and adhere to the recommended routes to avoid further delays.
