A Githurai 45 SACCO bus was involved in a collision with a passenger train in Githurai on Friday evening after attempting to cross the railway tracks, leaving both vehicles and nearby property badly damaged.
The incident happened at around 6:30pm as the bus, which was travelling from Nairobi Central Business District to Githurai, approached the railway crossing. Accounts from the scene indicate that the bus was moving across the tracks when the train struck its driver’s side before the vehicle could completely clear the railway line.
The force of the collision pushed the bus along the tracks and also affected a vehicle that had been parked nearby. A structure close to the railway line was damaged during the impact, while debris was scattered across the area.
Dust and smoke were briefly seen around the scene as people nearby moved away from the crash. Despite the extent of the damage, circulating reports indicated that there were no fatalities or serious injuries following the collision.
The bus driver was seen getting out of the vehicle shortly after the crash as witnesses gathered to assess what had happened. Other people in the area also moved closer after the train came to a stop.
The train was marked 9306 and was reportedly operating as part of the Nairobi Central Station-Ruiru passenger service. It was passing through Githurai when it collided with the bus.
The incident has renewed attention on safety at railway crossings, particularly in busy areas where vehicles and trains use the same routes.
Railway crossings can be dangerous when motorists attempt to cross without first confirming whether a train is approaching.
The Githurai collision comes only days after a Nairobi-Nyahururu passenger train partially derailed at Ol Kalou Railway Station. Two wheels of one coach reportedly came off the tracks, although there were no immediate reports of injuries.
Last month, Kenya Railways issued a safety warning reminding members of the public to use authorised railway crossing points and to check carefully for approaching trains before crossing.
The public was also advised not to attempt to outrun or cross in front of a moving train.
The latest crash has once again highlighted the need for motorists and pedestrians to exercise caution around railway lines, especially at busy crossing points.
Authorities are expected to continue monitoring such areas as concerns over railway safety remain.
