Nairobi: Residents of Eastlands have nowhere to walk as mechanics, traders take over walkways

Pedestrians in Nairobi’s Eastlands area are having a difficult time navigating the estates and roadways after traders and mechanics took over walkways and pavements.

Residents told Wananchi Reporting that trekking in the estates has become a difficult and dangerous undertaking since walkways have been hijacked.

“Traders and mechanics have become an obstacle in the estates. As a parent I am worried about the safety of our children, the elderly and those with physical disabilities,” said William Mwangi, a resident of Buru buru

According to Mwangi, large sections of the recently paved walkways and pavements are not serving pedestrians.

“Some walkways and pavements have been turned into overnight parking areas by establishments running businesses next to these roads,” notes Jude Makonge, a resident of Umoja.

“Pedestrians are often forced to walk on near busy and dangerous roads because the pavements have been hijacked,” adds Makonge.

Many are concerned that these uncivilised behaviour has been allowed to gain root despite the fact that Nairobi County Laws parking on pavements is listed as a parking offense.

The residents are asking the county government of Nairobi to intervene.