Gov’t assures traders of fair relocation during road construction

The Government has assured traders in markets to be affected during the reconstruction of the Kenol-Isiolo Highway into a dual carriageway that they will be relocated in a humane way.

Speaking on Monday at Chaka market after inspecting construction works at the new Chaka Market Complex commissioned by President Uhuru Kenyatta three months ago, ICT CS Joe Mucheru said that elaborate plans have been made to ensure affected traders do not lose their merchandise or places of business.

The CS expressed satisfaction that the work at the site was going on as expected despite a few challenges.

He noted that the contractor was being forced to excavate up to four meters deep for the foundation due to the presence of deep black cotton soil, stating that the work is to be completed in two years’ time but could still be completed ahead of schedule.

The CS interacted with the traders and listened to their needs that included a sewer borne sanitation system as the current sanitation arrangements were unsatisfactory.

The locals also asked that lighting masts be installed in the market to boost security as they forge forward towards the 24 hours economy.

The CS promised to liaise with the County Government of Nyeri as some of their concerns fell under its ambit; saying the Jubilee Government believed in consultation at both levels of governments to enhance quality service delivery to wananchi.

He also visited Kirichu market and assured the traders that the market would be redeveloped by the contractor doing that section of the highway.

Edited by Ronald Kibet