New Service Lane at Gatitu Expected to Ease Thika Traffic Snarl-Ups

Eng. Eunice Kiambi, KeNHA’s Director in charge of Corridor C

The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has constructed a new service lane at the Gatitu junction in Thika, in a move aimed at reducing the persistent traffic congestion that has long plagued motorists entering or exiting Thika Town.

Eng. Eunice Kiambi, KeNHA’s Director in charge of Corridor C, which runs from Museum Hill in Nairobi to Moyale and includes the Thika-Garissa Highway, said the new lane is expected to significantly ease traffic flow, particularly at the busy Gatitu junction where drivers frequently experience lengthy delays.

“This intervention is a strategic effort to decongest Thika Town and improve connectivity at one of the region’s most notorious traffic bottlenecks,” said Eng. Kiambi during an inspection of ongoing tarmacking works.

She added that the project will not only enhance traffic movement but also support local businesses by improving access and mobility.

Eng. Kiambi further revealed that KeNHA is planning to dual the Thika–Garissa Highway from the Thika overpass at the intersection with the superhighway all the way to Kilimambogo, a key corridor for regional trade and movement, subject to the availability of funding.

Local leaders and residents have welcomed the development. Ephraim Njihi, Chairperson of the Thika NG-CDF and a long-time resident, described the service lane as a “timely solution” to the traffic chaos motorists endure, especially during major events and market days.

“It’s encouraging to see tangible steps being taken to improve traffic flow. This lane will be a game-changer for daily commuters and businesses alike,” said Njihi.

Jackson Mungai, a matatu driver with Chania Sacco operating on the Thika–Nairobi route, echoed the sentiment, noting that traffic police interventions have done little to resolve the gridlock.

“Sometimes it takes nearly an hour just to get from the superhighway into town. This new lane is a huge relief,” said Mungai, who also called on KeNHA to consider building an overpass at Gatitu to further ease traffic flow.

The service lane project marks a significant milestone in efforts to address Thika’s long-standing traffic challenges and improve the efficiency of key road networks in the region.