Why Nairobi Railway Matatu Terminus Will Be Closed For A Whole Day

To effectively carry out the survey, the entire terminus will be closed from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Why Nairobi Railway Matatu Terminus Will Be Closed For A Whole Day
The Kenya Railways main station in Nairobi. /KENYA RAILWAYS

Kenya Railways, in partnership with the Nairobi City County government, has advised Kenyan motorists to brace for a planned closure of the Nairobi Railway matatu terminus on Sunday, September 24.

In a notice, Kenya Railways Managing Director in conjunction with the Nairobi County Secretary revealed that the temporary closure is for the purpose of carrying out a Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) utility survey.

The GPR survey is considered essential for the design and planning process of the New Nairobi Central Railway Station, a component of the Nairobi Railway City Project.

To effectively carry out the survey, the entire terminus will be closed from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Sunday.

Matatus at a stage in Nairobi. /FILE

"Notice is hereby given to the General Public that Kenya Railways in conjunction with the Nairobi City County, intend to carry out a comprehensive Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) Utility Survey at the Railways Matatu Terminus and the Easy Coach Park.

"This is part of the Design and Planning process of the New Nairobi Central Railway Station and Public Realm, a component of the Nairobi Railway City Project. To carry out this exercise, the terminus will be temporarily closed from 0600hrs to 1800hrs on Sunday 24th September 2023," Kenya Railways stated in part.

Alternative Pick-Up Points

The Public Service Vehicle (PSV) operators and General Public have been advised to note the disruption and the proposed alternative pick-up and drop-off points, as follows:

  1. Matatus from Ngong Road and Valley Road- Pick up and drop off points at Green Park.
  2. Matatus from Lang'ata Road and Mombasa Road- Pick up and drop off at Agip Bus Bay, in front of Posta City Square, and the street between Neno Evangelism Church and Shell Petrol Station, off Haile Selassie Avenue.

The Nairobi Railway City Project, a visionary initiative, seeks to create a world-class, integrated railway network in the heart of Nairobi.

It aims to enhance connectivity, ease traffic congestion, and provide a more convenient and sustainable transportation system for the city's residents. Additionally, the Railway City project will expand the CBD to the South by setting up key services and facilities to attract entrepreneurs. 

It will also transform the area around Nairobi Central Railway Station into a modern Railway City, provide a sustainable urban space and create a Transport Hub with Multi-modal Transport Facilities.

Through a Public Private Partnership (PPP), the United Kingdom (UK) government will fund the project at an estimated cost of Ksh30 billion.

The comprehensive GPR Utility Survey at the Railways Matatu Terminus and the Easy Coach Park marks a significant milestone in achieving this ambitious goal.

The Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) Utility Survey involves the use of advanced technology to map underground utilities and structures. This information is essential for ensuring the safe and efficient construction of the new railway station and its surroundings.

The survey will help identify and avoid potential conflicts with existing underground infrastructure, such as water pipes, sewer lines, and electrical cables.

By temporarily closing the Nairobi Railway Matatu Terminus, project planners can ensure the safety of both the public and workers involved in the survey.

This proactive approach helps minimize disruptions during the later stages of construction, allowing for a smoother and more efficient development process.

Artist's impression of the proposed Nairobi Railway City project. /CONSTRUCTION KENYA