NAIROBI, Kenya, Mar 6 – Commuters were stranded across parts of Nairobi on Friday evening after heavy rains flooded major roads, paralysing transport and causing severe traffic disruptions.
The downpour, which began at about 4pm and continued past 9pm, overwhelmed drainage systems in several low-lying areas of the city, leaving roads submerged and vehicles struggling to move.
Flooded sections were reported along Thika Road–Pangani Interchange and City Park Market along Limuru Road, where motorists were forced to slow down or seek alternative routes.
Boda boda riders also raised fares, with some charging up to Sh100 more for short trips as demand for transport surged.
“I had to get a boda boda. I am supposed to travel to Mombasa by Standard Gauge Railway and I’m worried I might miss the train if I keep waiting,” said Waithera, a commuter travelling from Ruaka to the central business district.
Several commuter routes linking the city centre to surrounding estates were heavily affected, leaving passengers waiting for hours at bus stops.
Some motorists abandoned vehicles as floodwaters rose, while others struggled to drive through waterlogged roads.
Public service vehicle operators attributed the fare increases to traffic delays and operational challenges caused by the flooding.
The heavy rains had earlier been forecast by the Kenya Meteorological Department.
In some neighbourhoods, matatus and buses were unable to operate, forcing commuters to wade through knee-deep water as they searched for alternative transport.
