In a recent crackdown on road safety violations, traffic police and officials from the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) were captured on video arresting excess passengers from a Super Metro bus in Witeithie Town along the Thika Super Highway. The viral footage shows officers stopping the bus and detaining several individuals as part of their efforts to enforce traffic regulations.
The NTSA issued a stern warning on Twitter, advising commuters against boarding overloaded vehicles to avoid inconveniences. This action by the NTSA comes after a series of tragic road accidents in Kenya involving school buses. Notably, an accident involving a Kenyatta University (KU) bus resulted in 11 fatalities and 45 serious injuries. Other incidents include accidents involving Moi University and Kabarak boys’ buses, which have collectively left several dead.
In response to the alarming increase in road accidents, Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has taken a firm stance, stating that all intoxicated drivers will face charges. The government’s resolve to improve road safety is evident in recent measures, including re-testing Public Service Vehicle (PSV) drivers and the collaboration between NTSA and the National Police Service (NPS) to enforce traffic laws.
The public is urged to comply with road safety regulations and to report any instances of overloading or intoxicated driving. As the NTSA continues its vigilant enforcement, it is a collective responsibility to ensure the safety of all road users.
“We have nabbed a number of people who have been found to be drunk or rather have alcohol beyond the legal limit as drivers. Drinking does affect how you operate your vehicle on a number of issues. That’s why we are asking Kenyans to ensure that they are lawful. We are doing this operation with the National Police Service to ensure Kenyans are safe all the time,” said NTSA during the operation.
The transport authority and the police have recently intensified a crackdown against traffic offenders, following increased road accidents across the country.