The Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) has announced an invitation for bids to construct the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system along Outer Ring Road. This new Line 5 project aims to enhance the city’s infrastructure by creating dedicated lanes for high-capacity buses over a 10.5 km route, stretching from the Eastern Bypass to Thika Superhighway.
In its tender notice, KURA specified that only companies from the Republic of Korea are eligible to submit bids. The project is funded by a Ksh 7.6 billion loan from the Korean Export-Import Bank through the Economic Development Cooperation Fund.
The BRT initiative will involve a comprehensive redevelopment of Outer Ring Road, featuring the construction of 13 BRT stations, three river bridges, two overpasses, and several footbridges. The project also includes improvements to street lighting, landscaping, and a new drainage system, along with advanced traffic management technologies to enhance safety and efficiency.
A notable aspect of the project is the introduction of electric vehicles for the BRT line, with charging stations to be installed along the route to support eco-friendly transportation goals. The buses will come equipped with modern technologies, including vehicle tracking and surveillance systems.
However, some critics have pointed out that construction on the BRT line along Thika Highway is currently stalled, and they question the necessity of prioritizing Outer Ring Road, which does not face significant traffic congestion.
