Nairobi: The Cabinet has approved the dualling of the 20.2km Northern Bypass in Nairobi to alleviate traffic congestion in the metropolitan area. The project, which connects the Western and Eastern Bypasses from Ruaka in Kiambu to Ruiru, marks the last single-carriageway bypass in the city.
According to Kenya News Agency, the decision was made during a Cabinet meeting led by President William Ruto at State House, Nairobi. The project involves upgrading the current single carriageway into a dual carriageway, including the construction of eight interchanges, overpasses, underpasses, and facilities for non-motorised transport.
The development will feature walkways, cycle paths, improved drainage, and enhancements to adjacent roads. The upgrade aims to reduce congestion, improve traffic flow, and enhance road safety while boosting access to economic hubs, industrial zones, and essential services in Nairobi and Kiambu counties.
Currently, peak hour congestion on the bypass results in travel delays, higher transport costs, increased pollution, and reduced productivity. In addition to the bypass project, the Cabinet has approved the Nairobi Railway City Central Station and Public Realm Project. This initiative aims to reduce congestion in the capital and revitalise the central business district.
The Railway City project is seen as crucial for attracting private investment and involves transforming the outdated Railways Central Station into a modern, multi-modal transport hub. The station will feature nine platforms and improved access bridges, capable of handling the evacuation of up to 30,000 people per hour.
With secured funding, the project will integrate key transport links such as BRT Line 3, commuter rail lines, and a Standard-Gauge Railway connection to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport. It is expected to create jobs, spur urban regeneration, and promote sustainable growth, positioning the station as Nairobi's premier transport interchange and symbolising the city's progressive urban vision.