Nakuru: Nakuru City Management on Wednesday announced an intensified effort to address the chronic drainage issues plaguing Bondeni estate, following a comprehensive infrastructure assessment. City Manager Mr. Gitau Thabanja, accompanied by a team of technical officers, conducted an on-site inspection of the neighbourhood's roads and drainage systems, identifying critical areas requiring immediate intervention.
According to Kenya News Agency, the inspection revealed a dire situation, with numerous drainage channels suffering from blockages. The situation has significantly heightened the risk of flooding and associated health hazards during periods of heavy rainfall, which would adversely impact the lives of Bondeni residents. 'Residents have endured repeated disruptions and health risks due to these low-capacity drainage systems,' stated a representative of Area Member of County Assembly (MCA) Fadhili Msuri, who joined the assessment team. The MCA's office has been vocal in demanding swift action to alleviate the long-standing problem.
The technical team conducted a detailed survey of the affected areas, meticulously mapping out key points where intervention is most crucial. Thabanja explained that the survey findings would serve as the foundation for both immediate repair works and long-term upgrades. These upgrades are designed to ensure the drainage infrastructure could effectively manage stormwater, mitigating the risk of future flooding crises.
Thabanja reiterated the commitment of Governor Susan Kihika's administration to transform Bondeni's drainage system as a vital component of a broader urban renewal initiative. He acknowledged the severity of the challenges but stressed that achieving sustainable improvements would require a collaborative approach between the government and the residents. 'We are committed to providing lasting solutions,' Thabanja stated. 'However, the success of this project relies heavily on the cooperation of the residents,' he added.
He urged area residents to actively participate in the process by maintaining the cleanliness of drainage channels, emphasising that collective responsibility is essential for enhancing safety and improving the overall quality of life in Bondeni through effective drainage solutions. The City Management has pledged to provide regular updates on the project's progress and engage with the community to ensure their concerns are addressed.