The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has announced the indefinite closure of the Marigat-Loruk highway after a section of the road was submerged by floodwaters from the swelling Lake Baringo. The development follows several days of heavy rainfall in the region, which has caused water levels at the lake to rise alarmingly, spilling over onto the highway and cutting off transport.
In a statement issued on Thursday, August 21, KeNHA advised motorists to avoid the flooded stretch and instead use alternative routes, including the Loruk-Chemalingot road.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and advise when the water levels recede. The Authority remains committed to ensuring seamless connectivity to facilitate the safe passage of goods and services for economic prosperity,” read the notice.
The closure comes after mounting pressure from residents who had raised alarm over the deteriorating condition of the road. Locals warned that if no intervention was made, the critical highway risked being completely cut off. “Currently, the water levels inside the lake have increased, and it is filling, closing the road. The water levels in the lake began rising in June this year,” said one resident.
Beyond the inconvenience of disrupted transport, residents expressed fears that the rising waters could increase human-wildlife conflict. Hippos and crocodiles, already a concern in the area, pose a growing threat to pedestrians and school children navigating the submerged paths. “I live within this area, and going to the shop to purchase things is now a huge problem. Children cannot go to school because of the hippos and crocodiles,” lamented another resident.
