Nairobi's Busiest Transport Route Shuts Down for Four Months Starting Next Week
Nairobi, 11 May 2026
Thousands of daily commuters face major disruption as Eldoret Road closes from 6am on 18th May until 18th September 2026 for bridge construction over Nairobi River. The closure affects one of the capital’s most vital transport arteries connecting Eastlands areas including Eastleigh, Pangani, and Buruburu.
Infrastructure Project Details and Timeline
The Kenya Urban Roads Authority announced on Monday, 11 May 2026, that the closure will commence at 6am on Monday, 18 May 2026, and continue until 6pm on Friday, 18 September 2026 [1][2][3]. KURA Director General Silas Kinoti confirmed that the temporary closure is necessary to facilitate the construction of a vehicular bridge across the Nairobi River, a project designed to ease congestion and improve connectivity between neighbourhoods [2][3]. The four-month duration represents a significant commitment to transforming urban mobility infrastructure, with the authority stating that the bridge will not only reduce traffic jams but also provide a safer crossing over the river, benefiting both motorists and pedestrians [2].
Traffic Diversion Routes and Management Strategies
Motorists travelling from Eastleigh towards Buruburu will be diverted through Mohammed Yusuf Haji Avenue to Heshima Avenue before joining Wangu Road through Uhuru Estate [3]. Drivers using Eastleigh’s 19th Street and Ole Sinoni Road will be redirected to connect to 18th Street near the Kingdom Hall of Jehovah’s Witnesses Church, then proceed through Kiambiu via Cogmers before joining Ajuoga Road towards Uhuru Estate and later Wangu Road [3]. Alternative routing options include using parallel local streets in the Eastland area and nearby major connectors to reach Jogoo Road, or utilising the Ngong Road area connections linking to Mbagathi Road, Lang’ata Road, and inner connector roads depending on destination [1]. Traffic police officers and marshals will be deployed to guide road users and manage traffic flow along the affected corridor during the construction period [1][3].
Community Impact and Safety Measures
The closure is likely to disrupt traffic flow and cause delays for thousands of residents from Ngara, Pangani, and Eastleigh who regularly use the road [1]. Residents and business owners along Eldoret Road have expressed mixed feelings about the project, with some welcoming it as a long-awaited improvement whilst others worry about the disruption to daily routines [2]. One commuter remarked on social media platforms, ‘It’s inconvenient now, but if it means smoother traffic later, we’ll manage’ [2]. To ensure accessibility for all users during the construction period, KURA has emphasised that safety measures, including a temporary pedestrian bridge, will be in place at the affected area [2][3].
Broader Urban Development Context
This bridge construction project forms part of a larger beautification initiative for major roads in Nairobi, as road authorities including KURA and the Kenya National Highways Authority intensify road expansions in the capital [1]. The project represents ongoing urban infrastructure development aimed at modernising the city’s transport network in response to rapid urbanisation and rising vehicle numbers [2]. Strategic projects like this bridge are expected to set a precedent for future urban planning, ensuring the city remains accessible and efficient [2]. KURA has apologised for the inconvenience that might be caused, reaffirming its dedication to improving Nairobi’s road network whilst emphasising the long-term benefits of enhanced connectivity and reduced travel delays once completed [1][2][6].