The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced a temporary closure of the Nairobi Southern Bypass (Kikuyu-bound) between the Virtual Weighbridge and the Ngong Interchange due to traffic disruption caused by an overturned oil tanker.
In a notice posted on X on Saturday, 5 July 2025, KeNHA informed the public that the blockage had rendered the section impassable, prompting an immediate shutdown to allow for clearance and safety operations.
“The Kenya National Highways Authority regrets to notify the public of the temporary closure of the Nairobi Southern Bypass (Kikuyu Bound) between the Virtual Weighbridge and Ngong Interchange,” the Authority’s Corporate Communication Department said in the statement.
The agency directed motorists to use Waiyaki Way and Uhuru Highway as alternative routes, cautioning drivers to expect delays and exercise patience during the clean-up.
“All road users are urged to cooperate with the police and traffic marshals on site,” the statement added.
Eyewitnesses at the scene reported long queues forming along the bypass and feeder roads, with some commuters stranded as emergency teams arrived to manage the situation. Traffic police officers, fire personnel, and road safety engineers were quickly deployed to oversee containment and recovery efforts.
A KeNHA engineer who spoke to this publication noted that safety precautions were being prioritized, especially due to the nature of the spill.
We are working cautiously with the relevant emergency services to clear the oil and prevent any further hazard. The road will only be reopened once we confirm it is safe for motorists,” he said.
KeNHA also emphasized that updates on the clearance operation and traffic restoration would be provided through its official digital platforms.
The Nairobi Southern Bypass is a key artery linking Lang’ata Road to Kikuyu and the Nakuru-Nairobi highway, making it a critical transit corridor for long-distance and local motorists.
Authorities are urging the public to remain patient and adhere to detour guidelines until the section is declared safe
