Residents of Kirinyaga County are expressing concerns over their safety as the expected El Niño rains approach. A recent incident at a quarry in Mutithi Ward, Mwea, has heightened these concerns. A 48-year-old man, Harrison Mwangi, lost his life after being buried alive at Kwa V Quarry, where he worked. His death has sent shockwaves through the community, with many calling for improved safety measures at the quarry sites.
According to Mwangi's brother, Josphat Kariuki, the incident occurred on Monday when Mwangi entered the quarry with a friend at around 6am. After having lunch at 1pm, Mwangi returned to work and was subsequently buried alive by soil. Kariuki described the incident as a very bad one. Mwangi was the breadwinner of his family and relied on quarrying to support his household. His death has left his family in a difficult situation.
Quarry workers and residents in the area are worried that the risk of soil and rock collapses could increase with the onset of heavy rains. The rains can weaken quarry walls and make excavation sites unstable. Many residents of Kwa V village depend on quarrying for their livelihoods and have few alternative sources of income. The work is physically demanding and comes with significant risks, particularly during the rainy season.
The family of the deceased is facing additional challenges in processing Mwangi's death. They were informed that a postmortem was required, which will cost KSh15,000. Mwangi's brother, Francis Muriithi, expressed concern over the cost, saying they do not have the required funds. Muriithi also raised concerns over the safety of quarry workers, saying that the county government should inspect the sites and ensure safety measures are in place ahead of the rains.
Residents who do not work in the quarries have also appealed to the county government to take action. They want the government to inspect the quarry sites and ensure that safety measures are in place to prevent similar incidents in the future. The community is looking to the government to provide a safer working environment for quarry workers.
Mwea West Sub-County Police Commander Millicent Ngugi confirmed the incident and said investigations had been launched. She said a postmortem would be conducted as part of the procedure for deaths occurring in quarries. The police are working to determine the circumstances surrounding Mwangi's death and to prevent similar incidents from occurring.
The incident has highlighted the need for improved safety measures at quarry sites in Kirinyaga County. As the El Niño rains approach, residents and quarry workers are urging the county government to take action to prevent similar incidents. The government is expected to inspect quarry sites and ensure that safety measures are in place to protect workers.
Key points
- A 48-year-old man was buried alive at a quarry in Mutithi Ward, Mwea, Kirinyaga County, after soil collapsed on him.
- Quarry workers and residents are concerned that the risk of soil and rock collapses could increase with the onset of heavy rains.
- The county government has been urged to inspect quarry sites and ensure safety measures are in place ahead of the rains.
