Void in Nakuru-Eldoret Highway suspected to be connected to volcanic activity
A sinkhole has caused a disruption on the Nakuru-Eldoret Highway, cutting off a section of the road on Wednesday evening. The incident, which is due to unpredictable geological activity beneath the surface, has prompted the involvement of local experts from Kenya's geological survey agencies and university researchers specializing in volcanology and geotechnical engineering.
This is the second time a similar phenomenon has occurred at the same location. The sinkhole was caused by a pyroduct, an empty tube-like structure found in volcanic areas, which collapsed due to heavy rains and water flow. Pyroclastic material surrounding the pyroduct is easily affected by the flow of water, leading to the formation of deep gullies.
Nakuru County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara stated that engineers and geologists are working on the occurrences in the area, which has a volcanic history. Kibaara urged developers to take precautions while constructing houses in areas prone to these incidents. He also mentioned that the backfilling of the sinkhole is in progress, and the government is waiting for further advice from experts on a possible long-term solution.
The pyroducts exist as exit points for molten lava during volcanic activity. The rains caused the overlying material to collapse, causing the sinkhole. Kibaara added that the drainage system is partly to blame for the sinkhole, as more runoff water has been directed to one area.
Following the incident, an assessment conducted by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA) indicated that the integrity of the road had not been compromised. KENHA director Kibet Terigin assured motorists using the road of their safety, and engineers from KENHA reopened the road Thursday morning, restoring normal flow of traffic.
The engineers and geologists working in the region are diligently investigating the cause of the sinkhole and potential solutions for the future. As the investigation continues, it is crucial to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions in areas prone to geological activity.
