Residents of Tunnel area in Kipkelion, Kericho County, are calling for an urgent redesign and expansion of the road following a deadly accident that claimed seven lives and left 30 seriously injured.
The accident occurred on the busy stretch of road when a Kisumu-bound bus rammed into a lorry that was traveling in the same direction, according to police and eyewitness reports.
The impact resulted in multiple fatalities on the spot, while dozens of passengers sustained serious injuries.
Speaking at the scene, residents blamed the tragedy on what they described as a poorly designed road that has become a frequent site of accidents.
“This road is very dangerous due to its design,” said Janet Siele, one of the residents leading the call for action. “We have raised our concerns several times with the relevant authorities, but nothing has been done. Now we are burying our people because of negligence.”
Another resident, Florence Marusoi, echoed her sentiments, saying the situation had become unbearable for the community.
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“It is heartbreaking to keep losing lives through accidents that could have been avoided,” Marusoi said. “We want this road expanded and properly redesigned to reduce these accidents. Our cries have been ignored for too long.”
Residents noted that the Tunnel area has recorded several accidents in the past, especially involving heavy commercial vehicles and passenger buses, due to narrow lanes and poor visibility.
Meanwhile, health officials confirmed that the 30 injured passengers are receiving treatment at Londiani Sub-County Hospital and are currently in stable condition.
Local leaders have joined residents in urging the roads authority to move with speed and assess the road, warning that more lives could be lost if no immediate action is taken.
By Kimutai Langat
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