Railway Line Left Hanging After Heavy Rains Trigger Landslides, Train Services Paralysed

Ezra Manyibe | 1 week ago
A section of the hanging rail line in Thogoto, Kiambu County. |Photo| Courtesy|

Train Services from Kiambu to Nairobi Central Business District (CBD) have been paralysed after a section of the railway line was left hanging in Thogoto, Kiambu County.

Heavy Rainfall experienced in the area triggered landslides which left a section of the rail line hanging.

Area residents who spoke to the media, pointed an accusing finger at human encroachment. Members of the public farming close to line had loosened the soil, thus susceptible to landslides.

"When the water washed away the soil, the rail line was left hanging. Train services from Kiambu to Nairobi and back every morning and evening have been paralysed," David Wakioge, a resident said.

Following the incident, Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) halted train services to the region until the line is reconstructed.

The residents called upon Kenya Railways to consider relocating the line along more stable ground - and avoid risk of similar future incidents.

"This railway line should be relocated more to the left. The drainage should be redirected to Kiunguro River. If the line is reconstructed and left where it is, it would be an exercise in futility. It will still be damaged," another resident stated.

The rail line adds to the growing list of transport infrastructure paralysed by the ongoing rains experienced across the country.

On Friday morning, April 26, 2024, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) and the Kenya Meteorological Department issued an advisory to Kenyans - cautioning against continued settlement in areas expected to experience landslides.

KeNHA advised motorists plying the Athi River - Machakos Road near Green Park estate to exercise caution after the embankment slopes were eroded, posing risks to the service road.

"The main carriageway remains open, however, due to the tenuous conditions, please refrain from using the service road. Motorists are advised to prioritize safety when using the main carriageway and to proceed with caution," KeNHA adviced.


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