The long-awaited Outer Ring Road BRT project is finally taking off after the government secured Ksh7.6 billion to fund its construction. This ambitious venture aims to decongest Nairobi’s notorious traffic, offering a critical transport solution for the eastern part of the city. Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), which is the implementing agency, says in an advertisement dated September 24 that the tender is restricted to firms from Korea only and will be conducted in accordance with the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) guidelines. The funds, sourced through a loan from the Korean Export-Import Bank under the Economic Development Cooperation Fund, were initially secured in 2020 during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration. To decongest the city, the Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (Namata) gazetted five BRT lines, which are in different phases of development.
Project Factsheet
Location: Nairobi
Country: Kenya
Significance: Reduce traffic congestion in Nairobi’s Outer Ring Area
Project duration: 2 Years
Cost of Phase: Ksh. 7.6 Billion
The Significance of the Outer Ring Road BRT Project
Outer Ring Road, once hailed as a transformative development for East Nairobi, has been overwhelmed by heavy traffic in recent years. Areas such as Pipeline Estate and the Kariobangi junction have become chokepoints, with the road’s initial design failing to accommodate the ever-growing population. Traffic congestion along Outer Ring Road has been a problem on one of the roads, leading to Kenya’s biggest airport, the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). The Outer Ring Road BRT project, being part of the Nairobi Integrated Urban Development Master Plan, is being implemented to end vehicular congestion in the CBD.
In addition, the Outer Ring Road BRT project aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and also provide a cost-effective, efficient mode of transport for Nairobi’s diverse population. Furthermore, this development is a significant step towards a more sustainable and technologically advanced public transportation system in Nairobi.
What to Know About the Multibillion Project
There will be the construction of three river bridges and two overpass bridges of approximately 1,024 meters and 323 meters, respectively. The Outer Ring Road BRT project will cover a total distance of 10.5 kilometers. Furthermore, it will feature a two-lane BRT line designed to improve commuter efficiency. Among the key developments are three river bridges and two overpass bridges, measuring approximately 1024 meters and 323 meters, respectively. Additionally, KURA plans to construct 13 BRT stations along the route, with new footbridges and upgrades to existing pedestrian pathways. Further enhancements include the installation of a comprehensive drainage system, street lighting, and landscaping to beautify the area.
Moreover, a dedicated Outer Ring Road BRT depot, measuring 1,365 square meters, will be built to support the system’s operations, complete with parking facilities, access roads, and necessary fencing. This depot will serve as a critical hub for the BRT system, facilitating smooth vehicle operations and maintenance. Sustainability is a core focus of the project, with plans to incorporate electric buses. Charging stations will be strategically placed along the route, promoting eco-friendly transportation options. The buses will also be equipped with advanced technology, including vehicle tracking and surveillance systems to ensure passenger safety and operational efficiency.
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The Scope of Implementation on the Outer Ring Road BRT Project
The Outer Ring Road BRT project seeks to ensure implementation by constructing the following road lines:
Line 1, Ndovu, runs from Limuru-Kangemi-CBD-Imara Daima-Athi River and Kitengela.
Line 2, Simba, runs from Rongai-Bomas-Langata Road-CBD-Ruiru-Thika and Kenol. It is 70 percent complete and will be implemented in two pilot phases.
Phase one will start from Kasarani to Kenyatta National Hospital, while the second phase will begin from Ruiru and terminate at KNH.
Line 2 will consist of 13 intermediate stations with 24 platforms.
A park-and-ride facility is also being erected at Kasarani. It will enable motorists heading to the CBD to leave their vehicles and use BRT buses for the remainder of the journey.
Line 3, Chui, runs from Tala-Njiru-Dandora (Juja Road)-CBD-Show Ground (Ngong Road) and Ngong.
Line 4, Kifaru, comprises of East and West. The east one runs from Mama Lucy Hospital-Donholm (Jogoo Road)-CBD.
The west one runs from CBD-T Mall-Bomas-Karen and Kikuyu.
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