Disaster in waiting! Traders turn section of Haile Selassie avenue into a market

The ongoing rains have only added to the chaos that have become 'part of the road' – with many fearing the situation endangers lives of pedestrians, motorists and traders.

“A vehicle can easily lose control and plough through these people. It has happened before in other places and it can happen here,” said James Makau – a motorist who uses the stretch a lot.

Makau said he wastes a lot of hours and fuel on the stretch running between Landhies road roundabout and Railways bus station.

“The hawkers and pedestrians literally walk on the road all the time. The side of the road has also been taken over by traders,” said Makau – adding that the ‘roadside market’ keeps expanding.

Motorists using the road have to be careful to avoid hitting cart pullers, traders and pedestrians.

Meanwhile, pedestrians using the stretch have had to learn to navigate through the sea of humanity, carts, hawkers, goods spread on the tarmac and motorists.

"The hawkers practically spread all manner of goods on the road. You have to be careful when walking not to step on their goods, otherwise you will be in trouble," said Makau.

Tens of cart pullers crisscrossing the road as they move goods to and from the market have exacerbated the chaos.

Residents are blaming hawkers and traders for all the chaos. 

Motorists and other road users now want traffic police officers to be stationed along the stretch permanently to help manage the traffic – and avert disaster.