In 2015, Meru County embarked on a visionary journey to revolutionize road construction using the new Probase technology, a promising method hailed for its potential to create long-lasting, cost-effective and low-maintenance roads.
Spearheaded by Governor Peter Munya, the initiative promised a new era for infrastructure development in the country. The Governor received praises from several colleagues who attended the launch of the roads constructed using the technology.
However, the once-celebrated Kianjai-Urru-Miathene road now stands as a stark reminder of poor decisions and possible corruption plaguing infrastructure projects.
According to Hon. Munya, the Probase technology, designed to create robust and enduring roads in a few simple steps, offered hope for Meru County residents and Kenyans at large.
By combining soil loosening, innovative soil hardeners like SH-85 and environmentally friendly stabilizers such as TX-85, the roads were meant to be more affordable, dust-free, and virtually maintenance-free.
With the use of PB-65 soil sealant, the technology promised roads that would resist rain and water penetration, ensuring optimal performance.
However, the stark contrast between these grand promises and the harsh reality on the ground is now painfully evident.
In less than 5 years, the Probase-constructed roads had already failed to live up to expectations. What was envisioned as a lasting solution has become a source of daily frustrations for area residents.
The roads have become a nightmare, impassable for motorbikes and humans alike, with vehicles forced to wait or risk getting stuck for days.
Motorists who dare the Kianjai-Urru-Miathene route are advised to tag along more than five well fed and motivated men to push the vehicle from the muddy quagmires.
Heartbreaking scenes of people pushing vehicles through the mud have become a common sight, painting a poignant picture of the road’s rapid deterioration.
According to former Governor Peter Munya, the roads were constructed at a cost of Sh880 million, a loan obtained from the Malaysian government.
The construction commenced in 2015 with an initial three-year timeline, and the Malaysian government had committed to maintaining these roads for the subsequent five years.
However, residents say that since the roads were commissioned, no maintenance operations have been seen in the area.
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