Nakuru County Tackles Drainage Issues Amid El Nino Weather

Nakuru, Kenya – In response to the ongoing El Nino-related weather phenomena, the Nakuru County Government has initiated a project to clear clogged drainage systems. This initiative aims to prevent the overflow of rainwater and flooding, thereby protecting both public safety and infrastructure.

According to Kenya News Agency, County Executive for Infrastructure Engineer Michael Kamau emphasized that this move is crucial not only for protecting road infrastructure but also for mitigating health risks and building resilience against climate-related challenges. Eng. Kamau noted that the project includes directing accumulated stormwater at the busy KFA Roundabout to an existing manhole and unclogging the Gatehouse Roundabout beneath the railway line to control water pooling. He highlighted the potential exacerbation of flooding issues due to clogged drains, which can lead to water accumulation on roads, residential areas, and agricultural fields.

Kamau stressed the importance of collaboration with other stakeholders to address flooding problems on major highways and the extensive damage that flooding can cause to infrastructure like roads, bridges, and buildings. He also pointed out the health risks associated with stagnant water from clogged drainage, such as breeding grounds for mosquitoes and the spread of vector-borne diseases. The county executive underscored the significance of maintaining drainage systems and improving their resilience as key strategies in adapting to the changing climate and reducing the impact of extreme weather events.