This archive report was first published on 21 June 2021.
A newly constructed Kangemi Flyover in Nairobi collapsed on June 21, 2021, burying several people under the rubble.
According to eyewitnesses, one pillar of the bridge gave way, causing a wall to collapse and trapping several people, including road workers who were working below the flyover at the time of the incident.
The incident occurred at the peak of the evening rush hour, causing a major traffic snarl-up along the busy Waiyaki Way highway.
Rescue efforts were underway as first responders and well-wishers worked to save the lives of those trapped.
By 7:00pm, reports confirmed that four people had been retrieved and two were undergoing treatment at a local hospital.
The old Kangemi bridge was demolished to allow for the construction of a modern flyover as part of the Nairobi Expressway project, which is being executed by the China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) at an estimated cost of Sh59 billion.
The contractor has projected up to Sh3.9 billion annual profits from the venture, gained from toll fees which will be levied on road users.
