NAIROBI, Kenya – The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has opened the floor to public opinion regarding the proposed $1.2 billion Riruta-Ngong commuter railway line.
The 12.5-kilometer rail project, commissioned by President William Ruto last December, is set to traverse several key neighborhoods including Riruta, Karen, Bulbul, and Ngong, potentially transforming daily commutes for thousands.
NEMA’s call for oral or written feedback within the next 30 days is crucial for the decision-making process on the environmental impact assessment (EIA) of the project.
The proposed rail line, which cuts through the Ngong Road Forest and exits at the Southern Bypass in Riruta ward, has sparked significant public interest and debate.
The route then continues along the Ngong Road corridor to the Karen shopping center, crossing over to Kerarapon Road before reaching its terminus in Ngong.
This stretch impacts several areas within the Oloolua and Ngong wards of Kajiado North subcounty, raising concerns about potential biodiversity loss.
Kenya Railways has pledged to mitigate environmental damage by minimizing vegetation clearance, avoiding unnecessary felling of indigenous trees, and compensating for any vegetation loss through replanting.
The agency also promises to undertake a tree inventory for replacement, prepare a biodiversity action plan, and ensure habitat restoration along the railway corridor.
Moreover, a resettlement action plan will be executed before the project’s commencement, ensuring systematic consultations with stakeholders and affected persons.
Notices to vacate will be issued in advance to roadside traders to prevent conflicts, and appropriate compensation will be provided.
Despite these measures, local resistance has been vocal. On April 16, residents of Karen threatened legal action to halt the construction, citing insufficient public participation.
During a heated public meeting at St. Christopher’s International School, Karen residents, represented by the Karen Langata District Association (KLDA), expressed their discontent with the lack of transparency surrounding the project.
KLDA Chairman Sikalieh Samora emphasized the need for genuine public participation, warning against the use of consultations as mere formalities.
He stressed that residents demand adherence to legal standards and the protection of their rights.
The project, once complete, is expected to accommodate up to 10,000 commuters daily, significantly easing congestion in Nairobi.
However, concerns over air, noise, water pollution, and soil erosion persist. Kenya Railways has committed to developing a comprehensive construction waste management plan and engaging NEMA-registered waste service providers.
