Pipeline residents decry poor road infrastructure

Residents of Pipeline in Nairobi County are raising the alarm over the deteriorating state of the road infrastructure in the area, citing neglect and a lack of accountability by authorities.

The residents say key access routes are in deplorable condition, particularly the road linking Trans-Army to the Eastern Bypass, as well as several feeder roads around Plot 10.

Their concerns centre on the worsening state of Trans-Army Road, which is riddled with large potholes that have remained unrepaired for an extended period.

The road, a critical link to the Eastern Bypass, has been in disrepair for years, prompting residents to question the commitment of both county and national leaders to address the issue.

“For a long time, Trans-Army Road has not been repaired, even after the current government assumed power in 2022. I really don’t know where the allocated budget goes,” said John Kamau, a motorist.

Residents blame both levels of government for failing to prioritise essential transport infrastructure, warning that the poor road conditions are delaying emergency response, including the transportation of patients to hospitals.

The situation deteriorates further during the rainy season, when potholes fill with water and mud spreads across the road, rendering sections impassable. This disrupts transport and affects businesses operating along the route.

“During the rainy season, vehicles move slowly, causing congestion as flooding and mud cover the potholes, making them hard to see,” said James Opiyo, a bodaboda operator. He added that the hidden potholes often lead to minor accidents involving motorbikes.

Residents have also expressed safety concerns over open drainage channels along the road, which pose a risk to pedestrians and contribute to unsanitary conditions.

“The open sewers and poor state of the roads make it risky for pedestrians,” said Brian Wafula.

Although some drainage works have been undertaken, residents say the channels remain clogged, with stagnant sewage raising hygiene concerns, particularly as food vendors operate nearby.

They are now calling on the county government to urgently rehabilitate the road and surrounding infrastructure and to allocate sufficient funds for durable construction that offers a long-term solution rather than repeated, costly repairs.