Kapenguria-Lodwar highway cut off by floods

A section of the Kapenguria-Lodwar highway was cut off by floods. [Iresheel Shanzu, Standard]

Transport in Turkana County has been paralysed after the Kapenguria-Lodwar highway was cut off by floods.

Hundreds of motorists and residents were stranded after the road was rendered impassable.

The stretch between Lous Market and Kambi Karaya has been affected disrupting business between West Pokot and Turkana counties.

West Pokot County Commissioner, Khalif Abdulahi expressed concern over the destruction of roads by floods. "Traffic police from Marich Police Station were dispatched to guide motorists and avert a crisis moment after authorities received reports about the damaged section," he said

Abdulahi called for patience among road users saying relevant agencies were exploring alternative routes to ease transport.

"We understand the gravity of the situation, our priority is the safety and well-being of stranded travelers. We are working tirelessly to explore solutions and restore connectivity as quickly as possible," he said.

Efforts to rehabilitate the section of the highway are underway with emergency personnel and construction crew on high alert.

"We are doing everything we can to expedite the clearance process. We also urge travelers to exercise patience and caution as we work to resolve this crisis," said Abdulahi.

The County Commissioner assured the public that updates on the affected highway will be disseminated promptly as the situation unfolds.

By Monday morning, travelers were stranded by the roadside with no viable alternative routes to use.

"It is a challenge, we were on our way to Lodwar for business but now we are stuck here with no idea when we will be able to continue with our journey," lamented John Kiptum.