Plans to build Likoni bridge in top gear, says roads boss

Feasibility studies on the Likoni channel bridge are almost complete.

The Kenya National Highways Authority director general, Mr Peter Mundinia, said consultations were underway on the position for the bridge.

Speaking during a press briefing after a courtesy call on County Commissioner Evans Achoki, Mr Mundinia said they would connect the bridge directly on the Likoni channel or link it with the port.

“We are consulting and we expect by the end of this year we will be okay. We are talking of the bridge and roads which will be laid when the bridge is ready,” said Mr Mundinia.

The cost will be determined once the location is established.

If the bridge lands at the port, said the director, it would make goods transport easier. “In decongesting the island, everyone must be consulted. That is why we are working very closely with the Japanese consultants,” he added.

In March, the government secured a grant for the design and building of the bridge.

On the Dongo Kundu bypass, Mr Mundinia said the Transport ministry was in talks with the Japanese government to secure funding for the second and third phases.

“For now we are in the first phase of the project but there will be a meeting on Wednesday where our Cabinet secretary will be meeting with the Japanese government,” he said, during an inspection tour of the Coast road projects on Monday.

He also said the first phase of the Port Reitz-Airport-Changamwe road  was due to be completed by early next year.

“This is part of the Dongo Kundu road project. The first 10km start from the second container terminal to Miritini. The second phase will join this road and the South Coast at Dongo Kundu. The third phase will start from Dongo Kundu to Kibundani,” Mr Mundinia said.

He added that phase one was halted due to buildings and the power lines.