The Nairobi Expressway, whose construction is currently proceeding full steam ahead, is facing a hurdle after a group of environment activists petitioned the National Environment Tribunal (NET) arguing that the project had flouted sustainable development.
The group, consisting of the Daima Coalition among others, is concerned that this project and several others in the country have resulted in wanton felling of trees and acquisition of public green spaces all in the name of development.
In recent days, trees and vegetation along the Nairobi Expressway route have been cleared by the contractor to pave way for construction works, leaving an unfamiliar bare look.
In their appeal to the NET, the activists cite environmental impact of road construction on environmentally sensitive areas and green spaces, adequacy of public engagement and consultation on the project.
Other grounds are the issuance of an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) license in the absence of a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) and failure to consider necessary factors that would substantively impact the environment and viability of the project.
The respondents in the matter include the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Expressway China Road and Bridge Corporation (CRBC) and Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA).
The Nairobi Expressway is a Kes 62b, 27-km highway running from Mlolongo on Mombasa Road and terminating at Westlands. The toll road is aimed at decongesting Mombasa Road and significantly reducing commuting time. It is set for completion in 2022.
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