Road contractors enhance COVID-19 awareness in mega projects, report zero cases

COVID-19 WESTERN BYPASS

Moving long the busy roads of Kenya, one cannot fail to notice one or two signs promoting the COVID-19 awareness policies, in a bid to curb the spread of the scourge.- By Gerald Gekara

The China Road and Bridge Construction is one such proprietor of the message.

Travelling through the Nairobi Western Bypass, the CRBC have instituted measures to curb the spread of coronavirus, through public education, and print campaigns.

Several banners, and signage have been put up from Gitaru to Ruaka, to continue urging Kenyans to observe Ministry of Health guidelines during the pandemic.

CRBC targets project staff, local Community, and transit road users to keep on reminding Kenyans on the need to observe the recommended guidelines.

Through a partnership with Kiambu County, the contractor has engaged health officials for regular sensitization of staff on the safety precautions and best practices to combat transmission of Covid-19 in their workplace environment and households. 

Government Officers inspect Western Bypass Project. Wearing of Facemasks is compulsory on site. | PHOTO COURTESY – MESHACK MAKAU

Through this initiative, the CRBC has reported zero COVID-19 infections since the virus was first detected in May 23.

Employees’ temperature records are taken twice a day and compiled for review and action where need be.

An internal team is also responsible for following up on compliance of set out regulations.

This follow-ups include regular visits to active construction sections and Project Offices, to monitor progress and strict adherence to the laid down Covid-19 mitigation measures.

The Ksh. 17Billion bypass is part of the Nairobi Ring project. The project still remains within stipulated timelines, despite the COVID-19.

All this has been made possible through compliance with health regulations, and cooperation with the Emergency Committee on COVID-19 pandemic.

The bypass follows the existing road (Gitaru Road) towards the northeast and then turns to the southeast near Ndenderu town (Limuru Road).

The Western Bypass will facilitate faster movement through several towns such as Gitaru, Wangige, Ndenderu and Ruaka.