Traffic Restored on Nairobi Southern Bypass After Oil Tanker Incident

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has informed motorists and the public of the restoration of traffic on the Nairobi Southern Bypass (Mombasa Road-bound) following an earlier oil tanker incident that occurred on Saturday, January 24.

In a statement, KeNHA Director General Eng. Luka Kimeli says the move follows successful emergency response operations, which included fire suppression, site containment, and safety assessments.

“KeNHA has now opened the road for traffic following complete restoration works done in collaboration with the Traffic Police and other emergency agencies,” Kimeli said.

Kimeli said motorists have resumed normal traffic along the Southern Bypass, but road users are advised to exercise caution, follow posted signs, and obey directions from traffic police as traffic flow stabilizes.

“Motorists have now resumed normal traffic along the Southern Bypass. However, road users are advised to exercise caution, adhere to posted traffic signs, and follow directions issued by traffic police on site as traffic flow stabilizes,” he added.

KeNHA has appreciated the cooperation, patience, and understanding demonstrated by motorists and residents during the emergency response period.

Also Read: Major Nairobi Highway Closed Following Fuel Tanker Explosion

KeNHA Closes Nairobi Southern Bypass

In an initial notice, KeNHA said the traffic incident involved two oil tankers and had resulted in a fire outbreak.

One fuel tanker reportedly fell from the Southern Bypass onto the lower road and burst into flames, presenting a significant fire and explosion risk.

Consequently, the Southern Bypass has been temporarily closed to facilitate emergency response and ensure public safety.

Motorists were advised to avoid the Southern Bypass until further notice.

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The Authority also advised road users seeking to access Mombasa Road to divert via Lang’ata Road.

“Motorists should use alternative routes and anticipate traffic delays on surrounding roads. Members of the public are strongly cautioned against approaching the incident scene, as fuel fires pose extreme danger,” Kimeli said.

Motorists were urged to strictly follow directions issued by traffic police and emergency responders.

Residents and road users in the vicinity were directed to remain alert to smoke, restricted movement, and emergency operations.

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KeNHA statement regarding the oil tanker incident on the Nairobi Southern Bypass (Mombasa Road bound) that occurred on Saturday, January 24. PHOTO/KeNHA.