The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has issued a new notice ordering roadside traders operating along parts of the Thika Superhighway to vacate within seven days to allow for planned infrastructure improvements.
In the directive, the Authority singled out traders at Kihunguro (both sides), Allsops (both sides), and Delview, instructing them to remove their goods and clear the road reserve within a week from the date of the notice.
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KeNHA Director General Luka Kimeli said the clearance is aimed at paving the way for the construction of designated roadside facilities along the highway.
Kimeli explained that the initiative forms part of wider efforts to improve traffic management and enhance safety along one of Kenya’s busiest transport corridors.
“The project is part of the Authority’s ongoing road safety improvement initiatives that seek to reduce accidents, enhance order within the road reserve, and ensure the unobstructed flow of traffic along the highway,” he said.
KeNHA added that the reclaimed areas will be used for upgrades such as building bus bays and implementing additional safety measures for motorists and pedestrians.
The Authority warned that those who fail to comply within the given timeframe will face enforcement action in line with laws governing road reserves.
The order comes amid rising tensions following recent demolitions along the highway.
On February 18, traffic along Thika Road was temporarily brought to a standstill after residents clashed with police over ongoing demolitions. Protesters engaged officers in running battles and set tyres on fire at the Githurai overpass, causing major traffic disruptions.
The protests were triggered by KeNHA’s move to reclaim what it described as illegally occupied road reserves and sections of railway land.
According to the Authority, the demolitions are necessary to restore order and create space for upcoming infrastructure projects.
However, affected traders have opposed the exercise, arguing that they were not properly consulted.
KeNHA had earlier served eviction notices to traders in areas including Roysambu, directing them to vacate. Many resisted the move, citing inadequate public participation and the lack of a clear relocation plan.
Some traders complained that they were given only seven days’ notice without prior engagement to address how the project would affect their livelihoods.
The operation has also attracted political criticism. Rigathi Gachagua faulted the government’s handling of the demolitions in Githurai, describing the approach as excessive.
Gachagua questioned the decision to deploy a large number of police officers at night to oversee the demolition of traders’ structures, raising concerns about the government’s enforcement methods at a time when many Kenyans are facing economic challenges.
