Water Cabinet Secretary Zachariah Njeru revealed the cause of the Mai Mahiu flooding incident which resulted in the loss of over 40 lives.
In a statement dated Monday, April 29, the CS attributed the incident to the blockage of a tunnel which is a channel for River Tongi.
The CS added that the blockage, caused by swept debris, then led to the bursting of the river banks. This led to the formation of a pool.
Owing to the pressure that was being exerted, the water moved downstream with force.
"The channel got blocked due to debris, stones, trees and soil brought about by the heavy downpour in the area thereby preventing water flowing through the River Tongi course and its small tributaries to move downstream.
"Therefore, River Tongi and its tributaries burst its banks leading to the formation of a pool beside the railway line and due to the force and pressure exerted, the water swept the railway line and started moving downstream at a very high speed and velocity causing destruction of property and loss of lives to people staying downstream," read the statement in part.
Contrary to the reports that circulated on social media, the CS also clarified that the flooding was not caused by the bursting of a dam.
"The area has no dam and the only dam upstream in a different tributary is Matches Dam which is in good condition and stable," the CS added.
However, those living near dams and water bodies have been advised to exercise caution and evacuate to higher safe grounds using safe routes.
Meanwhile, the government is still undertaking a search and rescue mission for people who were swept away during the Mai Mahiu incident.
As of the time of publication, 40 people had been confirmed dead with families still reporting missing persons.
President William Ruto is also expected to chair a cabinet meeting on Tuesday to announce new measures aimed at addressing recent floods that marooned parts of the country.
