Residents of Ruaka and users of the busy Ruaka–Banana road are raising alarm over the deteriorating condition of the Ruaka Bridge, warning that continued neglect could lead to more accidents and disrupt livelihoods in Kiambaa Sub-county.
In a formal petition addressed to the Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA), the Ndenderu Ward United Community-Based Organization (CBO) has called for the immediate rehabilitation of the bridge, describing it as a critical transport link that has fallen into disrepair.
The letter, signed by the CBO Chairman John Mweha Kariuki, highlights growing safety concerns among residents. According to the community, the bridge’s poor state has already contributed to several preventable accidents, putting both motorists and pedestrians at risk.
“The current condition of the bridge poses a serious danger to the public and undermines daily economic activities in the area,” the letter states. It further notes that the structure has increasingly become a dumping site, worsening the situation and reflecting what locals describe as prolonged inaction by the responsible authorities.
Community leaders say the absence of proper pedestrian pathways has exposed residents to grave danger, with reports indicating that some pedestrians have been forced off the road and into the nearby river, resulting in serious injuries.
Speaking on behalf of the residents, Kariuki—who is also a community leader and aspiring Member of County Assembly (MCA)—urged KeRRA to act swiftly and prioritize the rehabilitation works, including the construction of safe pedestrian walkways.
“We are appealing to the relevant authorities to urgently restore the bridge and ensure the safety of all road users. This is not just an infrastructure issue but a matter of public safety and dignity,” he said.
The community has warned that failure to take prompt action could trigger demonstrations and a formal petition demanding accountability from KeRRA officials.
Residents argue that the bridge is vital for transport and trade in the area, linking key neighborhoods and supporting local businesses. Its current state, they say, continues to hinder mobility and threatens economic activities.
Efforts to get a response from KeRRA officials were unsuccessful by the time of going to press.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on the roads authority to determine whether urgent measures will be taken to avert further risk and restore confidence among residents who depend on the crucial crossing every day.
