In a concerning incident on the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, a truck transporting sodium cyanide overturned at the Kambembe area in Rironi, prompting urgent warnings from Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi. The spillage of this highly toxic substance has raised alarms due to its severe health risks and potential environmental impact.
Governor Wamatangi addressed the press on Monday to underscore the gravity of the situation. “The chemical being transported is highly poisonous and hazardous with far-reaching health effects,” he stated. Sodium cyanide is known for its lethal consequences if mishandled, posing significant dangers to both human health and the environment.
Of particular concern is the discovery that 12 drums of the chemical are currently unaccounted for. “We cannot determine their exact location, whether they remain within Rironi or Limuru, or if they have spread further across the 12 sub-counties of Kiambu and beyond,” Governor Wamatangi emphasized. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report any information regarding the whereabouts of these missing containers.
Highlighting the potential dispersal of the chemical by rain to nearby areas, Wamatangi urged caution among residents. He stressed the importance of not approaching or attempting to move any suspected containers themselves due to the inherent risks involved. Instead, he urged immediate reporting to authorities for safe disposal.
The county has mobilized health personnel to monitor the health of residents in the affected areas. Governor Wamatangi also called for stringent enforcement measures to prevent unauthorized transport of hazardous materials. “Enforcement agencies must ensure that no vehicles carrying such chemicals pass unchecked through Kiambu,” he asserted, advocating for stricter regulations and escort protocols for transportation of dangerous substances.
“This incident underscores the irresponsibility of transporting highly toxic substances without adequate safety measures,” Wamatangi remarked critically. He emphasized the need for heightened awareness and precautionary measures among Kiambu residents to prevent further incidents and protect public health. As the situation develops, authorities continue to urge residents to remain cautious and report any suspicious activities or sightings related to the missing sodium cyanide drums. The county government remains committed to mitigating any potential risks and ensuring the safety of its citizens in the wake of this hazardous incident.
