In a statement dated Monday, November 2, the association questioned the need for an elevated highway above the existing Thika Superhighway, arguing that the current road already has the capacity and infrastructure required to facilitate traffic movement.
MAK noted that the existing highway has restricted entry and exit points, pedestrian footbridges and sections extending up to 12 lanes. It argued that investing more than Ksh150 billion in another elevated road would amount to unnecessary expenditure of public resources.
The motorists' lobby group also warned that the proposed structure could create environmental and security challenges for residents and businesses along the highway. According to the association, the massive concrete structure could block sunlight, worsen air quality and increase noise pollution along the corridor.
The group further raised concerns about the economic consequences of the construction, warning that businesses operating along Thika Road could suffer losses due to prolonged disruption of normal activities.
It drew comparisons with previous highway projects along Uhuru Highway and Mombasa Road, where construction activities and road expansion reportedly affected businesses and forced some establishments to vacate their premises.
The association argued that installing massive concrete pillars could also reduce the available road space, worsen congestion and interfere with commercial activities for several years.
However, the government maintains that the proposed expressway will help separate long-distance traffic from local commuters, easing congestion around Githurai, Ruiru and Juja.
The 60-kilometre highway will connect Thika town to Museum Hill in Nairobi through Ruiru and Juja under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) arrangement.
President William Ruto is expected to preside over the groundbreaking ceremony by December 2026 as the government advances its wider road infrastructure development programme.
Source: https://www.facebook.com/share/1QDEafNF5w/
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