Heavy Traffic in Mombasa as Police Warn Motorists Over Nyali Bridge Snarl-Up

Heavy Traffic in Mombasa as Police Warn Motorists Over Nyali Bridge Snarl-Up

Motorists in Mombasa are grappling with significant traffic congestion following a major snarl-up that has disrupted movement across key routes, prompting authorities to issue an urgent advisory.

In a statement released on Saturday, April 18, the National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that traffic flow within the coastal city had been severely affected, particularly along the Saba Saba, Buxton, and Nyali Bridge corridor.

“The National Police Service wishes to notify the public about a heavy traffic snarl-up in Mombasa, especially along SSaba Saba, Buxton, and Nyali Bridge corridor.” the statement read, underscoring the scale of disruption facing commuters.

According to police, the congestion has largely been triggered by ongoing infrastructure works involving pillar installation between Nyali Bridge and the Kengeleni area. The works, part of broader road development efforts, are expected to continue for several weeks, raising concerns about prolonged disruption.

Authorities noted that traffic officers have since been deployed across affected routes to manage the situation and restore order, with a warning issued to motorists against violating traffic regulations.

“The NPS is working with relevant agencies to restore normal traffic flow. Additional police officers have been deployed to the area and will take stern action against anyone violating traffic rules,” the police warned, signalling stricter enforcement measures.

Despite the intervention, the situation on the ground remains challenging, with long queues of vehicles reported across multiple junctions, particularly during peak hours. Commuters have been advised to remain patient and exercise caution while navigating the affected routes.

Police further urged drivers to observe lane discipline and consider alternative routes where possible to ease congestion and enhance road safety.

“Motorists are advised to remain patient, observe traffic rules, and where possible, use alternative routes,” the statement added, appealing for cooperation from road users.

As part of mitigation measures, a diversion has been introduced along the Kisauni–Malindi–Mombasa Road, redirecting vehicles through Mishomoroni before reconnecting at the Kisauni junction. The diversion is expected to help decongest the Nyali Bridge corridor, which serves as a critical link between Mombasa Island and the mainland.

The traffic disruption comes amid a broader wave of urban infrastructure adjustments within the city. Ongoing demolitions of structures encroaching on road reserves, particularly around the Kongowea Lights area, have further complicated traffic patterns.

At the same time, the County Government of Mombasa has implemented additional measures aimed at easing congestion, including restrictions on heavy commercial vehicles.

Earlier this month, the administration of Governor Abdulswamad Nassir announced a temporary three-month ban on the movement of heavy trucks exceeding ten tonnes along selected roads during peak hours.

The directive, which took effect on April 3 and is set to run until July 1, seeks to reduce pressure on key transport corridors and improve traffic flow within the city.

Transport analysts note that while infrastructure upgrades are essential for long-term mobility improvements, they often result in short-term disruptions that require coordinated management and public cooperation.

For many residents, the Nyali Bridge bottleneck highlights the broader challenges facing Mombasa’s transport network, including rapid urban growth and increasing vehicle numbers.

As construction continues, authorities have reiterated their commitment to ensuring minimal disruption while urging the public to remain vigilant and adhere to traffic guidelines.

The coming weeks are expected to test both infrastructure resilience and commuter patience, as the city balances development with the immediate need to keep traffic moving efficiently.

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Heavy Traffic in Mombasa as Police Warn Motorists Over Nyali Bridge Snarl-Up