Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua confirmed plans to redesign the Nithi bridge just a day after 12 people lost their lives in a grisly accident at the bridge.

Speaking at Mikumbune MCK Church in Meru, Gachagua disclosed that the designs for the new bridge are nearly complete.

PHOTO | COURTESY Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua

He mentioned speaking with Principal Secretary for Roads Joseph Mbugua, who assured him that the design work is nearing its final stages. Gachagua emphasized the urgency of expediting the process to fulfill the government’s promise to the people of Meru.

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The redesign of the Nithi bridge has been a critical issue since the 2022 election campaign. At that time, President William Ruto, who was then Deputy President, pledged to overhaul the bridge, which has been the site of numerous fatal accidents, resulting in over 2,000 deaths. Ruto had committed to initiating the project within six months of taking office.

The latest accident, which involved a collision between a matatu and a pickup truck, further underscores the urgent need for the bridge's redesign.

PHOTO | COURTESY Nithi accident 

According to Tharaka Nithi Police Commander Zacheous Ng'eno, 12 bodies, including ten adults and two children, were recovered from the scene. Two survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals for medical attention.

This tragic event highlights the ongoing risks at the Nithi Bridge and the government’s delayed response to addressing the danger. Less than a year ago, former Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, now in charge of the Sports and Youth Affairs docket, had announced plans to straighten the road leading to the bridge to eliminate the hazardous blind spot that has caused so many fatalities.