Eight killed after train collides with Kenya Pipeline Company staff bus in Naivasha

At least eight people have been reported dead and several others injured after a train collided with a Kenya Pipeline Company (KPC) staff bus at a railway crossing near Morendat Farm in Naivasha on Thursday afternoon.

In a statement, KPC and Kenya Railways confirmed the incident, saying emergency teams were deployed to evacuate the injured and investigate the cause of the accident.

The crash occurred at a railway level crossing adjacent to the Kenya Pipeline Company’s Morendat Training and Conference Centre.

The bus, which was reportedly transporting employees home after their morning shift, was hit by an oncoming Kenya Railways train as it attempted to cross the tracks.

KPC Managing Director Joe Sang said the company’s emergency response teams were activated immediately and coordinated with local authorities to transfer the injured to hospitals in Naivasha.

He added that arrangements for air evacuations had been made for those in critical condition to receive specialised medical care.

“We are working closely with the medical teams and local authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible care and to facilitate airlifts for the critically injured,” Sang said.

“At this time, our thoughts and prayers are with our colleagues and their families.”

First responders from KPC, supported by local emergency services, led the on-site rescue efforts, stabilising victims and organising their evacuation from the crash site.

According to Sang, the company’s main priority is supporting affected employees and their families. He added that KPC has mobilised its internal welfare and psychosocial support teams to help staff cope with the trauma caused by the incident.

“We assure the public and all our stakeholders that we are doing everything possible to manage the situation and provide the necessary support to those affected,” he said.

“We will continue to share updates as more details become available.”

While the exact cause of the crash remains unclear, heavy rainfall and foggy conditions were reported in the area at the time of the accident, raising concerns that poor visibility may have been a contributing factor.

In a notice, Kenya Railways also noted that its emergency response team was dispatched promptly, working alongside police officers to evacuate the injured.

The Railway urged members of the public to be vigilant at crossings to avoid future tragedies.

“We wish to extend our sincere condolences to the bereaved and wish a quick recovery to the injured. Motorists and the general public are advised to take caution when crossing the railway line at level crossings to avoid collision with approaching trains,” it said.

Both KPC and Kenya Railways have pledged to continue offering support to the affected individuals and families, as investigations into the cause of the deadly crash continue.