Residents of Kabare in Gichugu, Kirinyaga County, have raised concerns over the safety of the newly constructed Kiringa Bridge after rising water levels nearly submerged the crossing.

The residents said Kiringa River swelled on Wednesday night following heavy rainfall in Mt Kenya Forest, despite no significant rainfall in the surrounding area.

Led by Elias Kiura and Perminus Wachira Munene, the residents questioned the bridge's design, saying it was built too close to the river's water level and could be damaged during heavy rains.

“We are worried that it did not rain here, but it rained in the forest and the river almost overflowed the bridge. If El Niño rains come, the newly constructed bridge could be swept away,” Kiura said.

The residents said they had raised concerns about the project in February, warning that the contractor had failed to take into account the river's history of flooding.

They also questioned the absence of gabions and other erosion-control measures along the riverbanks.

“We suspect the contractor has finished his work as there is no sign of ongoing construction. They have installed side grills, there is no project signboard and construction vehicles have left,” Kiura said.

Wachira said the bridge, located near Kiringa Coffee Factory, is an important link between Kerugoya and the wider Gichugu area, warning that its destruction could disrupt transport.

“We are not against development, but the bridge is too close to the water level. We want engineers to come and assess it. What if it rains heavily here?” he posed.

Boda boda operators near the bridge also expressed concern, saying the river carries large volumes of water, trees and other debris from Mt Kenya Forest during heavy rainfall.

“This river collects everything from Mt Kenya when it rains, even elephants. We want intervention before Kabare is cut off from the rest,” said operator Bothwell Nyaga.

The residents are now calling on the contractor and relevant authorities to assess the bridge's safety and put in place measures to prevent possible damage during heavy rains.