The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) will finance the construction of the Nairobi rail flyover project which will connect Enterprise Road to the Nairobi CBD.
JICA is a government agency that coordinates the official development assistance given by the Japan government.
The Nairobi Rail Flyover
A rail flyover (viaduct) is a long bridge supported by an arch that carries a rail or road to form an overpass or a flyover.
According to the acting general director at the Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA), the project was recommended in the Nairobi Integrated Urban Development Master Plan 2030 as means of diverting traffic from Mombasa Road and reducing traffic in the CBD.
“At the same time it is intended to go a long way in expanding the CBD as well as alter permanently the Nairobi city centre landscape and give it a modern look,” he said.
Kinoti also said numerous studies have been done in line with JICA’s environmental and social safeguard guidelines and the relevant Kenyan regulations. JICA’s study team is carrying out the environmental and social impact assessment, resettlement action plan, and feasibility studies.
“So far, several consultative meetings have been held with stakeholders including the Muthurwa Estate residents as part of the ongoing RAP process,” he stated.
Kinoti also said that part of the rail flyover will occupy Wakulima market according to a 2016 feasibility study. However, the Authority is considering alternative routes to avoid disrupting the market.
One of the alternative sites is Muthurwa Estate which was identified after KURA consulted with stakeholders such as the Nairobi City County government, Wakulima market traders, and the Kenya Railways Staff Retirement Benefits Scheme (KRSRBS)
“The project planning and study activities are part of an ongoing process that will give recommendations and inform stakeholders including the government of Kenya and JICA on the project’s viability,” said Mr Kinoti.
The viaduct is just one of the infrastructural projects the government is pursuing in an attempt to take Kenya to the next level of development.
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