ALERT: KeNHA Closes Key Rift Valley Road After Dangerous Crack Appears at Kaptoror
The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has shut down the Nyaru–Fluorspar–Kapkayo–Tenges (B124) Road after a massive longitudinal crack emerged at Kaptoror Village. The affected section lies 13 kilometres from Nyaru, deep in Turesia Sub-location, Elgeyo Marakwet.
In a statement issued on Sunday evening, May 25, KeNHA confirmed the crack is a serious structural hazard.
“The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) wishes to inform the public that a serious longitudinal crack has developed along the Nyaru–Fluorspar–Kapkayo–Tenges (B124) Road at Kaptoror Village,” the authority announced.
Heavy Rains Worsen the Situation
The road, which cuts through the volatile escarpment zones of Rift Valley, has suffered under continuous downpours. With the land weakening, KeNHA feared imminent collapse of the section if action was delayed.
“Motorists using this route are advised that the road has been closed as a precautionary measure due to the ongoing heavy rainfall,” the alert further read.
The closure, though indefinite, could extend for weeks, especially as more rainfall is expected in the region.
Lifeline Road Now Cut Off
This critical road links Elgeyo Marakwet to Baringo County, passing through vital hubs like Fluorspar and Kapkayo. Farmers, traders, and miners heavily rely on this stretch for daily movement and goods transport.
With the route shut, KeNHA has urged motorists to instead use the Nyaru – Kamwosor – Ketigoi – Fluorspar alternative, which remains safe and open.
Cracks Becoming a National Threat
This isn’t the first alarming road crack this year. In early 2024, traffic police warned motorists against using Joska bridge on Kangundo Road after visible cracks threatened the bridge’s stability. That damage was attributed to the Athi River repeatedly flooding the structure.
Now, with the Kaptoror incident, experts fear a growing trend of geotechnical threats due to climate change and unpredictable weather patterns.
What Next?
KeNHA is already assessing the full extent of the damage at Kaptoror. Long-term fixes could involve soil stabilization, rerouting, or rebuilding the affected portion.
Motorists are urged to follow official updates, avoid the damaged section, and exercise extreme caution while traveling during this rainy season.
ALSO READ: KeNHA Announces 3-Month Traffic Disruption Along Mombasa Road – Here’s Why!
ALERT: KeNHA Closes Key Rift Valley Road After Dangerous Crack Appears at Kaptoror
