City Affairs

Nairobi City County responds swiftly to Eastleigh sludge concern

Nairobi County government excavator removes sludge on General Waruingi, Eastleigh.

By Yunis Dekow | Saturday, February 10, 2024

Locals had complained about the difficulties they were having getting muck removed, and some even said that authorities were demanding bribes.

The Nairobi City County administration has taken measures to resolve the accumulation of sludge in General Waruingi, Eastleigh, that was removed from nearby drainage systems in response to concerns expressed by Eastleigh Voice on Wednesday.

Locals had complained about the difficulties they were having getting muck removed, and some even said that authorities were demanding bribes.

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Efforts to reach Nairobi City County officials, the Green Nairobi Executive's office, the Environment Department, and the Solid Waste Collection, Transportation, and Disposal Services Department about the claims had been deemed futile.

City hall officials dispatched a wheeled excavator to the area on Friday to rectify the sludge issue.

The measure will now safeguard the cleanliness and safety of the street, which is home to various hotels, restaurants, banks, and other establishments.

The deteriorating conditions surrounding the area sparked widespread concern, emphasising the significance of keeping a clean environment.

Sludge exposure provides a variety of health concerns, including the spread of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites.

Airborne particles from dried sludge can cause respiratory problems, while direct contact can cause skin irritation and allergy symptoms. Furthermore, consuming contaminated water or food crops produced in sludge-amended soil might lead to gastrointestinal disorders.

Heavy metals, such as lead and mercury, in sludge can cause poisoning, and long-term exposure to certain chemicals may raise the risk of cancer.

Proper management and treatment of sludge is deemed crucial to mitigate health hazards and protect both human health and the environment.