Roads and Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has pointed out that the recent flooding at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) was largely due to inadequate drainage systems and blockages.
His comments came during a visit to the airport’s cargo section and Terminal 1C, two days after a major flooding incident disrupted operations.
Murkomen announced plans to install gutters and other drainage solutions to manage the excess water, as well as a commitment to install a modern roof to prevent future issues within one month.
He explained, “I encourage the warehouses to have the protective grills…it is not only the airport but also on the roads and goes into the drainage system and the encroachment of riparian sections…we have a master plan to sort the drainage for the next 50 years.”
At Terminal 1C, where water leaks disrupted passenger services, Murkomen attributed the problem to aging infrastructure and reassured the public of a comprehensive overhaul.
Immediate measures, like gutter installations, are being implemented to minimize rainwater accumulation, while the airport works on constructing the new roof.
Murkomen stated that the modern roof should be completed within a month, emphasizing the importance of swift action to resolve the issues.
“I’m promised that the roofing will be done in the next one month. We have grand plans… let’s not, as a country, be hyperbolic,” he said.
The flooding also caused significant damage in the cargo section’s cold room, resulting in losses for some businesses.
Murkomen extended his sympathies to those affected, noting that insurance companies are addressing the losses.
The Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) is a critical facility that provides direct and indirect employment to over 15,000 Kenyans. It is a crucial trade and transportation hub for goods and people across the country, the region, and the globe.
This afternoon, I visited… pic.twitter.com/svCwB5ZUhy
— KIPCHUMBA MURKOMEN, E.G.H (@kipmurkomen) April 30, 2024
“Hiyo ni biashara ya kibinafsi…bima imegharamia,” he added.
Recent heavy rains have caused widespread damage throughout the country, with JKIA bearing some of the brunt on Saturday, leading to disruptions at Terminal 1C.
This terminal serves various international airlines, including Qatar, Lufthansa, Ethiopia, Turkish, and Rwanda.
The government’s efforts are now focused on restoring and upgrading infrastructure to prevent future disruptions.
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