The cabinet has given the green light to the proposed dualling of the 20.2 kilometer Nairobi Northern Bypass and railway. The aim of the project is to upgrade and ease traffic congestion within the Nairobi metropolitan area. This emerged following a cabinet meeting under the chairmanship of President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi. Once completed, the project is expected to expand the city’s capacity to handle the growing traffic volumes within the city. Its scope entails converting the current single carriageway into a dual carriageway according to the dispatch released. Furthermore, it entails the construction of eight interchanges, overpass, and underpasses. It also includes the development of nonmotorized transport facilities such as walkways and cycle paths. Improvement of drainage systems is also in consideration and enhancements to adjacent roads. The Northern Bypass remains Nairobi’s only bypass that is still a single carriageway. This remains so as it stretches from Ruaka in Kiambu in Ruiru, connecting with both the Western and Eastern Bypasses.
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The Significance of the Nairobi Northern Bypass Project
The aim of dualling the Nairobi Northern Bypass project is to reduce congestion with the upgrade expected to improve traffic flow. Furthermore, it will enhance road safety and boost access to economic hubs, industrial zones, and essential services in Nairobi and Kiambu counties. The bypass currently experiences heavy congestion during peak hours leading to transport delays. The congestion also contributes to higher transport costs, increased pollution and reduced productivity. The cabinet has also given approval to the implementation of the Nairobi Railway City Central Station and Public Realm Project.
This intends to decongest the capital and revitalize the central business district. According to the government, the flagship project is seen as a critical step in attracting private investment to the Railway City. Through this, it will modernize the outdated Railways Central Station into a state-of-the-art, multi-modal transport hub. The new stations will feature nine platforms and improved access bridges, allowing for the efficient evacuation of up to 30,000 people per hour. On the other hand, surrounding public realm improvements will unlock underutilized land, encourage economic activity and increase foot traffic.
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Construction of Kenya’s Nairobi Southern Bypass nears Completion
Nairobi Western Bypass construction completion date revised to 2022
