Nairobi Expressway Charges in 2023: Here Are The New Charges, How To Register And More

The Nairobi Expressway, a 27-kilometre toll road in Nairobi, has become a crucial transportation route for commuters travelling between Mlolongo and the James Gichuru junction along Waiyaki Way. Constructed under a public-private partnership between the Kenyan government and the China Road and Bridge Corporation, this expressway aims to alleviate traffic congestion and provide seamless access to crucial areas of the city, including Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) and its surroundings. This article will explore everything you need to know about the Nairobi Expressway in 2023, including toll charges, registration procedures, and other essential details.

Key Takeaways

1. The Nairobi Expressway is a crucial toll road in Nairobi, offering a faster commute between Mlolongo and James Gichuru junction along Waiyaki Way.
2. It features 11 interchanges for convenient entry and exit.
3. The maximum speed limit on the expressway is 80 km/hr.
4. Users can register for either the ETC or MTC system for toll payments.
5. Toll charges vary based on the vehicle class and range from Kes. 100 to 360.
6. Certain vehicles, including ambulances, police vehicles, fire engine trucks, and military vehicles, are exempt from toll charges.

Let us now get started.

Nairobi Expressway Map – Nairobi Expressway Exits

The Nairobi Expressway runs as a dual carriage along the Nairobi A8 road, making it a vital connector for those travelling to Mombasa or Nakuru. It intersects with several key roads, ensuring smooth entry and exit for commuters. Here's a list of the interchanges you'll encounter:

1. Mlolongo Interchange
2. SGR Interchange
3. JKIA Interchange
4. Eastern Bypass Interchange
5. Southern Bypass Interchange
6. Capital Center Interchange
7. Haile Selassie Interchange
8. Thika Road Interchange
9. Westlands Interchange
10. James Gichuru Interchange

Nairobi Expressway Speed Limit

To maintain safety and efficiency on the Nairobi Expressway, a strict speed limit is in place. Motorists must adhere to a maximum speed of 80km/hr. Deviating from this limit can result in disciplinary action, so following the rules while using the expressway is crucial.

Nairobi Expressway Toll Charges

One of the essential aspects of using the Nairobi Expressway is understanding the toll charges. Toll stations are strategically spread across the road circuit, and these charges apply to Class 3 vehicles. Here's a breakdown of the toll charges for various vehicle classes:

Class 1: Two-Wheeled Motor Vehicles

Class 1 vehicles, which include two-wheeled motor vehicles, are prohibited from using the expressway.

Class 2: Three-Wheeled Motor Vehicles

Like Class 1, three-wheeled motor vehicles are prohibited from using the expressway.

Class 3: Light Vehicles With Two Axles

Toll charges apply to this class of vehicles. It represents typical passenger cars.

Class 4: Light Vehicles With Two Axles and A High Bonet

Motorists in this category are required to pay 1.5 times the standard toll rates.

Class 5: Heavy Vehicles With Fewer Than Four Axles

For Class 5 vehicles, motorists must pay four times the standard toll rates.

Class 6: Heavy Vehicles With Four or More Axles

In this class, motorists must pay five times the standard toll rates.

Nairobi Expressway Toll Rates

Toll charges are calculated between specific toll stations. Here are the rates for the various toll stations along the Nairobi Expressway:

How to Register

To use the Nairobi Expressway, you need to register for an account. Two payment options are available: the ETC system and the MTC system.

ETC System Users

ETC stands for Electronic Toll Collection, offering a seamless and efficient way to pay tolls. Here's how it works:

1. Register at the Nairobi Expressway Plaza along Mombasa Road.
2. Bring your car's original logbook and a copy of your national ID.
3. During registration, an On-Board Unit (OBU) device will be installed in your car.
4. As you approach the toll station, the OBU device communicates wirelessly, and the traffic barrier is lifted automatically.
5. Toll fees are deducted from your account, so ensure it's preloaded with the necessary toll points.

Advantages of the ETC system include time and fuel savings.

MTC System Users

MTC, or Manual Toll Collection, requires you to stop at entry and exit toll points. Here's how it works:

1. Visit the Nairobi Expressway Plaza with your original ID and a copy.
2. Get an MTC card, which you need to preload with funds.
3. Approach the toll point and use the MTC lane.
4. Receive a voucher at the entrance.
5. Continue through when the barrier is lifted.
6. At the exit, the toll collector will scan your coupon and collect your toll fee payment in cash or using your MTC card.

MTC cards offer the advantage of cashless transactions and time savings.

How to Use the Nairobi Expressway

To ensure a smooth journey, follow these steps based on your chosen payment method:

For ETC Users

1. As you approach the toll point, reduce your speed to below 20km/hr.
2. Your OBU will be detected automatically, and the toll barrier will lift.
3. The toll payment will be deducted automatically.

For MTC Users

1. Use the MTC lane to approach the toll point and reduce your speed to 5km/hr.
2. Stop near the Automatic Voucher issuing machine.
3. Press the green button to receive the voucher receipt.
4. Continue when the barrier is lifted.
5. At the exit, give the toll collector the voucher for payment, either in cash or using your MTC card.

Nairobi Expressway Contact Information

• Physical Location: Nairobi Expressway Plaza, City Cabanas Mombasa Rd
• Service Hotline Number: 0111039777
• Rescue Hotline: 0111039888
• Email Address: [email protected]

READ ALSO:KRA Offices, Locations, and Contacts: All You Need to Know

Conclusion

The Nairobi Expressway has transformed commuting in Nairobi, offering travellers a fast and convenient route. To make the most of this modern transportation solution, register for the ETC or MTC system, depending on your preferences. While navigating the expressway, remember the prescribed speed limit and adhere to the specified toll charges based on your vehicle class. Following these guidelines, you can enjoy a hassle-free journey on the Nairobi Expressway in 2023.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Nairobi Expressway?

• The Nairobi Expressway is a 27-kilometre toll road in Nairobi designed to ease traffic congestion and provide access to key areas of the city.

How many interchanges does the Nairobi Expressway have?

• The Nairobi Expressway features 11 interchanges along its route to facilitate entry and exit.

What is the speed limit on the Nairobi Expressway?

• The maximum speed limit on the Nairobi Expressway is 80 kilometres per hour (km/hr).

How can I register for the Nairobi Expressway?

• To register, visit the Nairobi Expressway Plaza with the required documents, depending on whether you choose the ETC or MTC system.

What are the toll charges for the Nairobi Expressway in 2023?

• Toll charges vary from one toll station to another and are based on your vehicle class. Rates range from Kes. 100 to 360.

Are there vehicles exempt from toll charges on the Nairobi Expressway?

• Certain vehicles like ambulances, police vehicles, fire engine trucks, and military vehicles are exempt from toll charges.

How can I contact the Nairobi Expressway for assistance?

• You can reach the Nairobi Expressway Plaza at City Cabanas, Mombasa Road. For service inquiries, call 0111039777; for rescue assistance, call 0111039888. You can also email them at [email protected].