Tragic Train Crash in Naivasha Claims Lives, Injures Scores
Naivasha, Kenya – August 7, 2025
A devastating collision between a Kenya Railways cargo train and a Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) staff bus near Morendat Farm in Naivasha has left at least eight people dead and numerous others injured, according to local authorities. The tragic incident, which occurred on Thursday evening at the Morendat Junction, has sent shockwaves through the community and disrupted transport along the Naivasha-Nakuru railway and road networks.
Details of the Incident
The accident took place around 5:00 PM when the KPC bus, carrying staff members finishing their morning shift, attempted to cross an unguarded railway crossing near the Morendat Training and Conference Centre. Eyewitnesses report that the bus driver may have misjudged the timing, leading to a catastrophic collision with an oncoming freight train. Despite the train driver’s efforts to apply emergency brakes, the impact was unavoidable, dragging the bus over 200 meters and leaving it severely mangled.
Naivasha OCPD Anthony Keter confirmed the incident, stating, “The bus crossed the railway line without checking, resulting in a fatal accident.” Eight passengers, believed to be KPC employees, were pronounced dead at the scene, while scores of others were rushed to Naivasha Sub-County Hospital in critical condition. Rescue operations, involving police, Red Cross teams, and local residents, worked tirelessly to free those trapped in the wreckage.
Eyewitness Accounts and Aftermath
Local residents described a chaotic scene, with the bus reduced to a crumpled wreck and debris scattered across the railway. “We heard a loud crash and rushed to help. It was heartbreaking to see so many people trapped,” said one eyewitness. The collision caused significant traffic disruptions along the Naivasha-Kasarani road, with authorities working to clear the scene and manage the snarl-up.
Kenya Pipeline Company Managing Director Joe Sang issued a statement expressing condolences: “With a heavy heart, we confirm the tragic accident involving our staff bus. All injured staff have been evacuated to hospitals in Naivasha, and we are organizing airlifts for those in critical condition.” The company has pledged to support the affected families and is cooperating with authorities to investigate the incident.
Ongoing Investigations
Preliminary reports suggest the bus may have experienced brake failure, though police are also examining whether human error or inadequate safety measures at the crossing contributed to the crash. The Morendat Junction, located near the Nairobi-Nakuru highway, has been flagged as a high-risk area due to its lack of barriers or warning systems. Authorities are now under pressure to address safety concerns at railway crossings across the region.
A Call for Improved Road and Rail Safety
This tragedy adds to Kenya’s troubling history of road and rail accidents. The Naivasha-Nakuru corridor, a busy transport route, has seen multiple fatal incidents in recent years, including a 2016 oil tanker explosion that claimed over 30 lives and a March 2025 crash that killed seven family members. Advocacy groups like Sikika Road Safety have renewed calls for stricter enforcement of traffic regulations and the installation of safety barriers at railway crossings.
As investigations continue, the nation mourns the loss of lives in this preventable tragedy. Our thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all those affected by this heartbreaking event.
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