Mombasa: The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has allocated Sh64 million toward drainage improvement works along the Links Road section near Quickmart supermarket in Mombasa. This initiative aims to address the persistent flooding that disrupts transport and mobility in the area.
According to Kenya News Agency, area Resident Engineer John Kipkegut, during an assessment visit by the Government Delivery Unit, Coast Regional Director Sherry Litunya, stated that the project seeks to elevate the road and enhance drainage capacity to ensure it remains motorable throughout the year. Engineer Kipkegut explained that the road section will be raised using pipe culverts and vertical drains to manage water drainage effectively.
Additionally, the 7.5-kilometre stretch from Nyali Centre to Lights will be maintained under a Performance-Based Contract for 12 months to ensure serviceability. However, Engineer Kipkegut pointed out that the main challenge is the high volume of stormwater from nearby developments, which often overwhelms the drainage system and leads to recurrent ponding. He emphasized that without adequate funding, constructing infrastructure to channel excess water to the ocean has been challenging and would require at least three months to complete.
Meanwhile, KURA has announced the closure of Links Road, Nyali, for six months to facilitate the construction works in the flood-prone area, which becomes impassable during the rainy season. The road will be closed from 6.00 AM on Friday, 1st August 2025, to 6.00 PM on Friday, 30th January 2026.
Motorists have been advised to exercise caution when approaching the affected section and to adhere to all road signs. Police Officers and Traffic Marshals will be present to ensure smooth traffic flow. Motorists are encouraged to use the Mt. Kenya Road diversion as an alternative route to enhance mobility during the construction period.