The government is seeking to settle pending bills to allow the completion of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project – Transport Cabinet Secretary (CS) Kipchumba Murkomen has revealed.
Murkomen has assured that his ministry is engaging with National Treasury to ensure prompt settlement of the bills owed to the project’s contractor to enable him to resume work in about two months.
Government intentions
The government intends to have the project completed by December next year.
“The BRT is a key priority project for the Kenya Kwanza Government as it will help streamline the public transport system covering Nairobi, Machakos, Kiambu, Kajiado and Murang’a by making it more organized, safe, secure and efficient,” Murkomen said.
The CS made the remarks when he inspected the BRT Line 2 at Kasarani terminal in Nairobi on Wednesday, accompanied by Nairobi Governor, Johnson Sakaja.
According to the CS, the first phase of the Line will cover the Ruiru-Nairobi CBD-Kenyatta National Hospital route with the second phase stretching from Kenol through Ruiru and Bomas (Langata Road) to Rongai.
Kasarani area
The terminal, located near Kasarani Stadium, will include a Park and Ride zone for motorists who wish to use BRT, a Matatu drop-off and pick-up zone, a bus ramp and an operation centre, among other facilities.
The National Metropolitan Area Authority (NaMATA), a State Agency under the Ministry tasked with coordinating the implementation of this project, is already working closely with Public Service Vehicle (PSV) owners and operators, private investors and other stakeholders with a view to enhancing inclusivity and expanding ownership of the project.
