NEMA shuts down construction site in Kilimani amid noise, toxicity complaints

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has ordered the immediate closure of a multi-million-shilling residential construction site on Likoni Lane in Nairobi's Kilimani area, following multiple complaints from neighbouring residents.

Days before NEMA halted the project, Alina Valley, the company behind it, was racing to complete the works. However, operations were abruptly stopped due to public outcry and numerous complaints from nearby residents about alleged violations, including the use of toxic substances during excavation, violations of permissible working hours and excessive noise.

"We have written to NEMA, we have complained to every relevant authority, and despite that, NEMA went ahead and issued licenses to them,” Julie Soweto, a Likoni Lane resident, told Citizen TV.

Noise at the construction site reportedly reached 102 decibels, nearly double the maximum permissible level of 60 decibels for construction sites. However, Alina Valley downplayed the concerns, describing the noise as mild vibrations caused by heavy machinery.

The constant drilling and excavation at the construction site are so intense that the building trembles, with the disruption continuing daily from 8 AM to 6 PM, making it a major nuisance for residents.

"We told NEMA to come and measure the noise levels, but they did not come,” Soweto added.

Frank Shebesh - Secretary of the Dennis Pritt Residents Association: "I work from home, many people do... we can't have this."

Residents claim they have repeatedly reported the violations to relevant agencies, including the county government, but with little success.

The Chief Officer in charge of Environment, Geoffrey Mosiria, has denied receiving any formal complaints on the same but assured that investigations would be conducted, with necessary actions taken thereafter.

"I'm not aware of any complaints... but we will send officers to investigate,” said Mosiria.

Another major concern raised by residents is the emission of toxic substances, which they allege have caused adverse health effects such as coughing, skin irritation, and difficulty breathing.

"I don't know what it is they emit, but it's causing us to be sick. The smell just comes inside your house,” Khilna Raval, another Likoni Lane resident, said.

A survey conducted by the Directorate of Occupational Safety and Health Services to assess air quality found no evidence of work exposure limits being exceeded at the site at the time of monitoring.

The survey, carried out on January 9, 2025, measured key pollutant gases, including carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide.

However, the report highlighted sulfur dioxide as particularly harmful, noting its potential to cause eye irritation, upper respiratory discomfort, coughing, chest tightness and a choking sensation when inhaled in high concentrations.

In a 648-page response, Alina Valley disputed the air pollution accusations, citing the air quality assessment that found pollutant levels within permissible limits.

The company, through its lawyer, assured that it remains committed to maintaining high hygiene standards and minimizing emissions to the lowest practicable levels.

Despite these assurances, NEMA has ordered the immediate closure of the construction site, citing the need to address residents' concerns. The closure remains in effect until further notice.