The government of Kenya has announced a commitment to putting an end to the perennial stormy water floods normally experienced in Gimu and Lukenya areas of Athi river area, Mavoko Sub-county of Machakos County.
This follows numerous complaints from the area residents’ association leaders led by Athi Highway Estate Association leader Mr. Joshua Muthoka who have called out government stakeholders to re-direct the floodwaters emanating from the Athi river-Machakos junction dual carriageway, which is under construction. Machakos County Commissioner John Ondego said that a special committee will be formed to look into the matter and offer a lasting solution.
“The Athi river-Machakos junction dual carriageway is a main road project, which is very vital for the people as it connects the counties as well as the international community. We need a lasting solution on the construction of a storm water drain, which will help save residents loss of lives and property,” said Mr. Odengo.
Lasting solution
“I call upon the Water Resources Authority (WRA) and the Athi River DCC to spearhead the formation of a small committee comprising of representatives from the Kenya National Highway Authority, the Kenya Urban Roads Authority, the Machakos County Planner and Surveyor, the security team, the residents and any other stakeholders,” added Mr. Odengo.
National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) County Director Ms. Sophie Mutemi observed that the matter has been a back-and-forth affair hence a lasting solution ought to be reached as soon as possible. Ms. Mutemi said that NEMA visited the affected areas and analysed all environmental issues adding that KenHA ought to take responsibility for any developers encroaching on riparian land in the area.
“Temporary measures will not do the public any justice. We ought to ensure that all natural waterways are clear and that public land is utilized only for public use. To achieve this, all mitigation measures ought to be managed by the right government authorities like KeNHA,” said Ms. Mutemi.
She however attributed the storm waters to the construction of the Standard Gauge Railway‘s drainage system which is believed to bring a lot of water downstream.
