Busia: Residents of Ngoliba in Kiambu County have opposed an alleged plan to move the Soya Bridge linking Thika and Gatanga constituencies in Kiambu and Murang'a counties, describing the structure as a vital lifeline for thousands of residents.

According to Kenya News Agency, the residents expressed shock over reports that the bridge, which was constructed in 2022 at a cost of Sh25 million after the previous crossing was swept away by floods, might be dismantled and relocated within Thika Constituency. Their suspicions were heightened after spotting earth moving equipment at the site, suggesting imminent removal.

Speaking at the site, residents led by Simon Shikuku noted they were initially informed the bridge would undergo repairs due to damage caused by heavy trucks, which led to sagging on one side. However, subsequent information indicated possible removal, which they strongly opposed.

'We cannot accept that because this bridge serves our people every day. Instead of moving it, the government should repair it where it stands because one side has already started sagging,' said Shikuku.

Another resident, Scolastica Kalondu, emphasized the community's readiness to resist any attempt to remove the bridge, highlighting its importance for farmers, traders, schoolchildren, and patients seeking healthcare.

'This bridge has transformed our lives. It enables farmers to access markets, children to go to school safely, and residents to reach hospitals without taking long and expensive alternative routes. We will not allow it to be taken away,' she said.

Residents urged the government to focus on rehabilitating the bridge, insisting that repairing the damaged section is the best solution.

Former Thika Town MP, Patrick Wainaina, supported the residents, emphasizing the bridge's role in ending years of hardship for communities on both sides of River Thika. He recalled tragic incidents before the bridge's construction, where several pupils lost their lives attempting to cross the river.

'Between 2018 and 2019, six Class Six pupils fell into the river and five of them drowned. We cannot allow selfish individuals to interfere with a project that has saved lives and improved the welfare of our people,' said Wainaina.

He stressed the bridge's significance to agriculture, trade, education, and healthcare access for residents of both Kiambu and Murang'a counties, urging the government to repair the damaged section to ensure user safety.