Arise Media 
BY RITA MUTHONI
Residents of Riamaciri village in Manyatta Sub-County of Embu have urgently called on the government to install guardrails at the Kangoru river bridge after a tragic accident claimed the life of a 67-year-old woodcutter.
The Wednesday evening incident occurred when the victim’s motorbike veered off the bridge, plunging into the river below.
According to eyewitnesses, the woodcutter, James Muriithi, was riding home from a long work day when his motorbike lost control on the narrow bridge.
Murithi is said to have died on the spot due to the impact of the fall.
The bridge’s guardrails, which could have prevented the accident, had been vandalized several months prior.
Despite numerous appeals to local authorities for their repair, no action had been taken, leaving the bridge perilously unprotected.
John Mbuva, a resident, expressed regret over the dangerous condition of the bridge, emphasizing the risk it poses to locals, especially school-going children who attend Gatoori Primary School and other nearby institutions.
“It’s not just the adults who are at risk. Our children cross this bridge every day on their way to school. This bridge is a death trap,” Mbuva stated.
“Repeatedly, we have reported the missing guardrails to the authorities but nothing has been done. We have lost one of our own because of this negligence,” added Benson Murimi, another resident.
Confirming the incident, Area Subchief Lydia Mugo expressed her condolences to the family and community, urging locals to exercise caution when crossing the bridge, especially at night.
“Vandalism endangers lives and will not be tolerated. We will ensure those responsible face the full force of the law,” she added.
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