Covid-19: Chinese firm to erect a floating bridge across Likoni channel

Kenya’s top security organs have given a green light for the plan to build a temporary floating bridge across Likoni Channel.

A document by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) shows that bridge will ease congestion on the ferries and reduce the risk of commuters contracting Covid-19.

The document (The Bridge) further reveals that the National Security Council made the decision on April 13 but the cost of the project and the date when the stated firm was awarded the contract are not indicated.

“Construction of the floating pedestrian bridge is a high level decision in government response to the Covid-19 pandemic and the human congestion at the Likoni Channel,” reads part of the report.

The project has been awarded to M/S China Road and Bridge Corporation by the State Department of Infrastructure through KeNHA.

Kenyan laws and policy classify the channel as a national highway managed by KeNHA. Finer details of the project have not been provided and it’s effects on communication along the busy channel but officials have said this should not confused with the proposed permanent bridge that has delayed for long.

Technology and science awaits explanation but the project remains complex and futuristic in paper.

Officials have not explained whether the bridge will be rolled back later or not and the exact place where the bridge will be erected on the channel is also not explained.

The document indicates that the effective date for commencement of the contract is May 20 and it is to be completed in six months with November 27 set as the completion date.