Governor Lee Kinyanjui with Interior CS Fred Matiang’i at Solai where two villages were swept away by water from Patel dam
He said the death toll as at noon was 32 people. 41 others were taken to hospital.
He said the tragedy affected 450 families and a multiagency team including KDF and NYS is taking part in the operation.
Dr. Matiang’i thanked the County Government for their swift response following the tragedy.
He said the Governor was at the scene from midnight and was in contact with him and President Uhuru Kenyatta briefed them of the incident.
He said the National and County governments will work together in the operation.
” We thank the Governor for his swift response and management skills that really helped in saving lives,” said Dr. Matiang’i.
He said investigations into the cause of the burst at the Patel dam is underway.
Also, engineers from the National and County governments are working to ensure two other dams at the private farm do not pose danger to residents.
He said a command center has been set up to oversee the operation under the leadership of Regional Commissioner.
Another center has also been set up near the scene for relatives to register missing family members.
Dr.Matiang’i called for patience saying this was not the time for blame game but to work together to help victims.
Mr. Wamalwa said his ministry has donated foodstuff to be distributed to victims.