KeNHA Shuts Nairobi Southern Bypass Following Tanker Blaze

By Hassan Wekesa - Editor

Kenya, 24 January 2026 - The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) on Saturday temporarily closed the Nairobi Southern Bypass in the Mombasa Road-bound direction following a serious fire incident involving two fuel tankers.

According to an emergency traffic alert issued by KeNHA, the accident resulted in one of the oil tankers falling from the elevated section of the Southern Bypass onto the lower road.

The tanker subsequently burst into flames, triggering a significant fire outbreak with a high risk of explosion.

The authority stated that the closure was necessary to facilitate emergency response operations and to protect public safety.

Fire and emergency services are currently on site, working to contain the blaze and manage the hazardous situation.

Traffic police have secured the area to prevent unauthorised access and to manage traffic flow around the incident.

KeNHA advised motorists to avoid the Southern Bypass until further notice.

Road users intending to access Mombasa Road are recommended to divert via Lang'ata Road.

Motorists should prepare for traffic delays on alternative routes due to the increased volume of vehicles.

The public has been strongly cautioned against approaching the incident scene.

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Fuel fires present extreme dangers, including the potential for further explosions, intense heat, and toxic smoke.

Residents and road users in the vicinity are urged to remain alert to smoke, restricted movement, and ongoing emergency operations.

KeNHA emphasised that motorists must strictly follow directions given by traffic police and emergency responders at the scene.

Failure to comply could endanger lives and hinder response efforts.

The authority expressed regret for the inconvenience caused to the public and assured road users that all necessary measures are being taken to restore safety and normal traffic operations as soon as possible.

"Further updates will be communicated as the situation evolves," KeNHA said in the alert issued by its Acting Director General Luka Kimeli.

KeNHA has emphasised public safety amid the ongoing containment operations.