This archive report was first published on 26 June 2021.
Massive Traffic Jam Causes Commuter Chaos ¶
On Saturday, June 26th, 2021, Kenyans traveling along the Nairobi-Nakuru Highway were stuck in a massive traffic jam, causing chaos for commuters and local residents.
The traffic jam was largely attributed to the legions of motorsports fans who were traveling to Naivasha to watch the ongoing World Rally Championship Safari rally, which was officially flagged off by President Uhuru on Thursday, June 24th, 2021, at the Kenyatta International Conference Centre (KICC) in Nairobi.
Local residents have called upon the government to intervene in the situation, citing poor preparation for the event in terms of transport as the traffic nightmare disparages their livelihoods.
The traffic jam stretches over a distance of 20 kilometers, with roads blocked to allow racing from Naivasha to Soysambu. This comes as part of the rallying premise which sanctions participation through public roads.
During WRC events, the governing body, FIA, works hand in hand with local governments to ascertain public safety and development of contingencies to avert possible hazards. However, the government has not provided Naivasha residents and tourists alike with alternative routes following road closures issued by Interior CS Fred Matiang'i.
The event is meant to continue through to Sunday, June 27th, 2021, with rally drivers covering 132 kilometers of unforgiving terrain with fans spectating along the secured routes.
