51 Passengers Stranded as Bus is Swept Away by Floods on Garissa - Nairobi Highway

51 passengers have been left stranded after a bus they were travelling in was swept away by floods on the Garissa- Nairobi Highway. 

From videos shared online, some passengers were seen on top of the bus which was submerged by water on the side of the road. 

According to preliminary reports, the bus was swept by the raging water around 11:30 pm on Monday, April 8.

Reports further allege that the driver of the bus dared to cross the flooded section of the road before it was overpowered and swept on the side of the road.

Most of the passengers escaped unhurt and rescue operations are underway to help those who were recorded sitting on top of the bus. 

"Kenya Red Cross first responders in collaboration with community members are currently engaged in a challenging rescue operation to save the lives of several people stranded aboard a bus that has been marooned by raging waters at Arer near Tulla village, Tana River County," Kenya Red Cross stated.

"The incident occurred following heavy downpour. We have dispatched two rescue boats to ensure swift and effective response," it added.

Following the incident, Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has closed Nairobi- Garissa Road indefinitely.

"KeNHA informs the public of closure of Nairobi - Garissa (A3) Road due to flooding at Arer Area, between Bangaley and Madogo. The flooding is as a result of the ongoing heavy rains which occurred last night and has resulted in rising water levels along the entire stretch," KeNHA stated.

KeNHA warned motorists against defying the order indicating that even the diversion that was being used has been compromised. 

"The flooding at Arer has compromised the road and diversion that was previously in use. This poses a high safety risk to the road users. This road, therefore, shall remain closed until the flood waters subside and the damaged section is reinstated," KeNHA stated.