Two university students rode their bicycles to the popular Juja dam on Sunday afternoon. They planned to relax in the area locals call "park and chill" and enjoy some time together. One student jumped into the water, attempting to swim, but quickly started struggling. His friend bravely dove after him, trying to help save his life.
Both students drowned before anyone could reach them with assistance. Resident Gabriel Mwangi explained many visitors lack swimming skills yet enter the water anyway. Mwangi believes stronger safety measures must protect people at the dam. He pointed out that four separate deaths occurred at this location during just one month.
"Most deaths happen because people attempt swimming without proper skills," Mwangi explained. He described how the water depth increases dramatically as swimmers move away from shore. Many visitors fail to understand these dangers before entering. Mwangi recommends the government station four lifeguards around the area to monitor swimmers.
He suggested adding at least one motorboat would make rescue attempts faster and more effective. Mwangi emphasized people should avoid swimming completely unless they possess adequate experience. Another witness described feeling helpless as he watched the students disappear under the water during Sunday's tragedy.
This witness urged future visitors to respect the dangers of the water body. "If you cannot swim, stay far away from the dam and simply observe the scenery," he advised. He recommended people take photographs instead as a safer alternative. Visitors appreciate the location because it offers free recreational options compared to other places charging entrance fees.
The Juja Dam attracts many young people who spend weekends there enjoying activities. Beyond swimming, visitors come for fishing opportunities and the beautiful surroundings. Some couples even choose the garden area as their wedding venue. Despite these attractions, the recent deaths highlight serious safety concerns requiring immediate attention.
Both students drowned before anyone could reach them with assistance. Resident Gabriel Mwangi explained many visitors lack swimming skills yet enter the water anyway. Mwangi believes stronger safety measures must protect people at the dam. He pointed out that four separate deaths occurred at this location during just one month.
"Most deaths happen because people attempt swimming without proper skills," Mwangi explained. He described how the water depth increases dramatically as swimmers move away from shore. Many visitors fail to understand these dangers before entering. Mwangi recommends the government station four lifeguards around the area to monitor swimmers.
He suggested adding at least one motorboat would make rescue attempts faster and more effective. Mwangi emphasized people should avoid swimming completely unless they possess adequate experience. Another witness described feeling helpless as he watched the students disappear under the water during Sunday's tragedy.
This witness urged future visitors to respect the dangers of the water body. "If you cannot swim, stay far away from the dam and simply observe the scenery," he advised. He recommended people take photographs instead as a safer alternative. Visitors appreciate the location because it offers free recreational options compared to other places charging entrance fees.
The Juja Dam attracts many young people who spend weekends there enjoying activities. Beyond swimming, visitors come for fishing opportunities and the beautiful surroundings. Some couples even choose the garden area as their wedding venue. Despite these attractions, the recent deaths highlight serious safety concerns requiring immediate attention.
