Govt Shuts Down Juja’s ‘Park and Chill’ Dam After 2 Students Drown
Officials have called on residents and students to adhere to the new directive, stressing that their primary concern is public safety.
Viral Tea Ke Writer 
The well-known "park and chill" recreational spot near the Titanic Dam in Juja, Kiambu County, has been officially shut down, with all activities in the area banned indefinitely. The closure comes in response to the tragic drowning of two Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) students just four days ago.
Confirming the closure on Thursday, March 6, Assistant County Commissioner Mwangi wa Mwangi revealed that authorities had to act quickly so that no more lives are lost.
“We have sat as a team and all agreed that we need to address this situation because we don’t want any other lives lost here.
"That is why we have put the team together, and going forward, I know that what has happened in the past will be history; it will not be repeated,” he stated.
A photo of Titanic Dam in Juja. /NAIROBI LEO
Another official stated that stringent measures have been implemented, including a complete prohibition on all activities within 100 meters of the dam, except for those conducted by licensed operators.
“We have banned all activities happening in this area, within the 100 meters area, except for licensed operators around this dam.
"However, all the other groups of people, including students, are not allowed here, and we have deployed officers both from the county and national government who will be here 24 hours starting today,” the official said.
Officials have called on residents and students to adhere to the new directive, stressing that their primary concern is public safety.
On Sunday, March 2, two JKUAT students sadly lost their lives after drowning while swimming in the dam. Despite rescue attempts, both students could not be saved. Their bodies were recovered by Kiambu County divers and taken to the General Kago Hospital Mortuary.
The incident has raised significant safety concerns about the dam, which had become a popular weekend destination for revelers. The area had recently experienced a surge in visitors, with people parking their vehicles near the dam, consuming alcohol, and participating in risky activities such as swimming.
At times, music concerts were held in the parking areas, drawing large crowds who were often unaware of the dangers posed by the dam’s waters.
To address safety concerns, local hoteliers have been instructed to employ professional divers to enhance security, particularly for customers taking boat rides on the dam.
A police report revealed that the Titanic Dam had already claimed four lives in 2025, including a highly trained General Service Unit (GSU) officer from the Recce squad.
Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution and avoid activities near the dam until further notice.
