A tragic incident recently struck Gatundu South when a county truck fell into the swollen Karimenu River.
Due to the dam overflow and the ongoing heavy rains, water levels in the area had risen significantly, making the situation perilous for vehicles and pedestrians alike.
Emergency responders faced considerable challenges in their recovery efforts due to the increased water levels and strong currents, which led to further delays in accessing the vehicle safely
Local residents expressed their concerns about the safety hazards posed by the overflowing dam and riverbanks.
The Karimenu II dam spillover has not only impacted nearby infrastructure but has also disrupted lives in the surrounding communities.
With several families facing the risk of displacement, the government has allocated funds to compensate affected residents, aiming to expedite relocations and minimize risks for those still living in vulnerable areas.
The incident has heightened calls from community leaders for preventive measures, as similar incidents have become more frequent with the dam’s overflow during the rainy season.
Local officials are urging people to stay clear of the river until conditions stabilize.
The tragedy has also renewed discussions about dam management and the importance of timely community alerts to avoid further loss of life.