Gichugu residents raise alarm over repeated vandalism at Kirinyaga bridge

The residents, led by Grace Wanjiku of Kimunye in Njuku Sub-location, said the latest incident occurred on Thursday night, rendering the bridge unsafe for use by heavy vehicles, including lorries transporting tea.

"We are worried because even school buses can no longer use the bridge. Parents are now forced to bring their children to the bridge for pick-up instead of buses collecting learners from their homes as they did before," said Wanjiku.

Residents accused scrap metal thieves of targeting parts of the bridge and endangering the lives of road users.

"We are concerned because crucial parts of the bridge have been stolen. It could collapse at any time," said Harrison Mutugi, a resident of Kabuti.

Mutugi said he uses the bridge daily while travelling to Kangaita but was forced to turn back after discovering the extent of the damage.

"I was shocked to find the bridge on the verge of collapse. I had to return despite the high fuel costs. We fear that learners heading to Kiangwenyi and Kimunye primary schools could be at risk," he said.

David Mwai, a pork trader in Kiangwenyi, said the vandalism has forced him and other residents to use longer alternative routes.

"We urge local leaders to work together and install security lights near the bridge to deter thieves who take advantage of darkness," Mwai said.

Residents said this is the third time Kiringa Bridge has been vandalized, raising concerns over the effectiveness of measures put in place to protect the structure.

Geoffrey Mithamo noted that tea transporters are now forced to take a longer route through Kutus despite the tea buying centre being located a short distance from the bridge.

Another resident, Mr Gichobi, said learners from Gatugura and Mugumo villages have also been affected by the disruption.

"This bridge has served the community for more than 30 years, but a few individuals are determined to destroy it. Learners are now being forced to use alternative means to get to school," he said.

The residents suspect some locals may be collaborating with scrap metal dealers to vandalize the bridge and have called on security agencies to investigate the matter and take action against those responsible.