Nairobi County has begun demolishing walls and structures obstructing waterways as authorities step up flood-control works ahead of the anticipated El Niño rains.
Two walls at estates in South C have already been brought down, while similar demolitions are underway in Githogoro as part of a multi-agency operation targeting blocked drainage corridors and flood-prone areas.
Governor Johnson Sakaja said structures interfering with the flow of storm water would be removed where they pose a threat to residents or property.
Speaking while inspecting drainage works at Drive Inn in Utalii Ward, Githurai in Roysambu and Upper Savanna in Embakasi East, Sakaja said political considerations would not be allowed to derail the exercise.
“We will not allow political considerations to compromise efforts to protect lives and property,” Sakaja said.
The county says the operation is aimed at restoring the free flow of storm water and reducing the risk of flooding once the heavy rains begin.
Sakaja said multi-agency teams had prioritized known flood hotspots, with contractors and engineers given timelines to complete drainage and flood-mitigation works.
The county is also working with national government agencies and other partners to ensure priority interventions are completed within the set timelines.
Authorities have warned that structures built on waterways and drainage corridors will continue to be removed where they obstruct storm water or expose residents to flooding.
The exercise is part of wider preparations to strengthen Nairobi’s drainage system and minimize disruption during the expected rains.
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