Mixed Reactions as Bungoma County Installs Road Spikes to Stop Illegal U-Turns

Bungoma County has installed tire spike strips on a dual-carriageway section in Bungoma Town to stop illegal U-turns. The devices were placed across a median opening where vehicles and motorcycle taxis had been cutting across instead of using the proper route.

A video circulating on social media shows a vehicle suffering punctured tyres after attempting the turn at night. The motorist was caught unaware by the spikes fixed on the tarmac, and suffered tyre punctures. He was from Nairobi.

The punctured vehicle /Alfa House on X

The location is along the dual-carriageway section near the main town entrance and interchange area on the C33/B139 road corridor, at the median that has the rail crossing. The stretch features street lighting along the central dual lanes.

The crossing. /Alfa House on X

Local authorities installed the spikes to block vehicles and boda bodas from taking illegal U-turns across the median opening. Some road users have supported the move, saying the illegal turns had become common and endangered others.

Others have criticised the approach. Critics describe the spikes as a crude form of enforcement. They point to the lack of clear warning signs and raise concerns about damage to vehicles.

Several voices called for proper signage or physical barriers instead of devices that puncture tyres without prior notice. Suggestions included visible no-U-turn signs or better design of the median opening.

The installation has triggered wider discussion on traffic enforcement in Kenya. Supporters argue that many motorists only respond to immediate consequences. Opponents call the method uncivilised and question its legality.

The debate continues over whether such physical deterrents are appropriate or whether clearer markings and conventional enforcement would better address illegal turns at the site.