Residents of Karen have demanded detailed feasibility reports before the government proceeds with further consultations on the proposed Riruta-Ngong metre-gauge railway.
During a public participation meeting on Wednesday, August 26, residents questioned the project's cost, design and potential impact on homes and properties along the proposed route.
Some residents argued that improving roads along the corridor could be a better way of easing traffic, particularly for people who may not use the railway stations planned along the 12.5-kilometre route.
They also called for more information on how the railway would connect with existing and planned infrastructure around Ngong, as well as projections on the number of passengers expected to use the service.
Residents raised additional concerns over noise pollution, possible economic effects and disruption to homes and neighbourhoods.
They asked Kenya Railways to provide clear information before further decisions are made, saying all affected stakeholders should be properly involved in the process.
Kenya Railways Environmental Officer Consolata Kioko said several government agencies, including the National Land Commission, Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority and Kenya Urban Roads Authority, were involved in addressing the concerns.
She said public participation and sensitisation meetings would continue as the project progresses.
The Ksh12 billion railway project was commissioned by President William Ruto in December 2023, with construction beginning in early 2024. The 12.5-kilometre line is expected to connect Riruta, Karen, Bulbul and Ngong and form part of Nairobi's wider commuter rail network.
However, a High Court ruling issued in July 2026 nullified the project, meaning construction cannot legally resume until conditions set by the court are fulfilled.
The dispute has therefore placed renewed attention on the project's feasibility, planning and impact on communities living along the proposed railway corridor.