The government has embarked on the expansion and tarmacking of a service lane that connects Thika town from the Garissa highway, much to the relief of commuters and matatu operators.

The less than one-kilometre stretch from Njomoko roundabout along the Thika Superhighway to the Gatitu area on the entry to Thika town is being constructed by the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) at a cost of Sh78 million and is expected to be completed in a few months.

When completed, the lane will end the traffic snarl-up in Thika town.

During the groundbreaking ceremony, Thika Town MP Alice Ng'ang'a said despite being a small stretch, it contributes to the highest traffic snarl-ups as one enters or exits the town. "This project will be a game changer for commuters who have endured years of traffic nightmares, especially during rush hours.