Wind caused SGR section to collapse, killing two workers

Kenya Railways Managing Director Atanas Maina says the collapse of a section of the Nairobi – Naivasha Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) project which killed two people on Monday, December 18, was caused by wind.

In a statement issued on Friday, Mr. Maina said an abnormally strong wind caused the culvert, which was under construction, to cave in killing two workers and injuring five others.

“An abnormally strong wind caused the enforcement bars of the culvert under construction to collapse. Further investigations are on going to ascertain the actual cause of the incident,” said the Kenya Railways director.

The director noted that the SGR contractor, China Road and Bridge Construction Company, would cater for the funeral expenses and hospital bills for the affected.

“In light of this accident, the contractor will conduct a safety compliance check at all our sub-section offices to ensure that every section is adhering to the laid down safety procedures. The contractor will also initiate the compensation and claim process with the insurance providers”, added the MD

Mr. Maina however refuted claims that the workers did not have helmets and other protective gear while working on the culvert hence the fatalities, saying that Kenya Railways has since construction of Phase 1 of the project, strictly ensured the contractor abides to labour laws and safety procedures in all matters.

The Kenya Railways MD further said he has directed the SGR contractor to make adjustments to reorganise the working shifts, and offer paid leave to the affected in a bid to allow time for healing process.