Naema Celestine 
Faith Nyongesa
On Wednesday, September 11, 2024, a devastating accident unfolded in Mai Mahiu, involving a Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) tanker and a 14-seater passenger van operated by Galaxy Express. The incident occurred on the heavily traveled Mai Mahiu road and has left the local community in deep shock and mourning.
The accident happened when the LPG tanker, descending a steep slope, lost control. Witnesses described a harrowing scene as the tanker veered off its intended path and collided with the matatu, a popular form of public transportation in the area. The force of the collision was so severe that both vehicles were pushed off the road.
Following the crash, the LPG tanker rolled down a nearby valley, exacerbating the disaster. The force of the impact and the subsequent rolling of the tanker contributed to the scale of the tragedy, with numerous casualties feared.
Recent media reports highlight a troubling trend in the area. Over the past 30 days, there have been a total of 27 accidents, resulting in 79 fatalities and 182 individuals sustaining serious injuries. This spike in accidents underscores growing concerns about road safety in the region.
The local community is grappling with the shock of the incident as authorities work to address the aftermath. Emergency responders and medical teams are on the scene, striving to manage the situation and provide aid to those affected.
In the wake of this tragedy, there are calls for increased scrutiny and improved safety measures on Mai Mahiu road. The repeated occurrences of such severe accidents raise questions about road conditions, vehicle maintenance, and driver safety.
As investigations into the cause of the accident continue, there is a heightened focus on understanding what led to the loss of control by the LPG tanker. The hope is that lessons learned from this incident will contribute to preventing future tragedies.
The accident has left a deep impact on the community, with many families and individuals mourning the loss of their loved ones. The coming days will likely see a concerted effort to support the affected families and address the broader issues of road safety in the region.
