Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has announced four new measures to curb the increasing cases of accidents across the country.
In a statement, the CS indicated that the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) will collaborate with the National Police Service to enforce traffic rules.
Further, he noted that the decision had been made with Interior CS Kithure Kindiki for more efficient enforcement.
“We are going to establish a mechanism where the previous directive to remove NTSA from enforcement will be vacated, and a collaborative regime between NTSA and NPS will be put in place for a more efficient enforcement.
You will be seeing a return of the NTSA working with traffic police to enforce traffic safety on our roads as soon as possible,” he said.
Other Reforms Announced by Murkomen
At the same time, the CS indicated that the re-testing of all PSV and Heavy Commercial drivers which had been postponed after an outcry from the sector, will be implemented immediately.
“All stakeholders are expected to comply and cooperate,” added the statement.
Murkomen also stated that NTSA will put in place measures for the implementation of medical testing of all drivers.
“As required by Section 105A(1) and (2) and Rule 30(4) of the Traffic (Driving Schools, Driving Instructors and Driving License) Rules 202 before the issuance of any new driving licenses and renewal thereof to ensure that only drivers who are medically fit are licensed to drive,” he indicated.
Lastly, he highlighted that the National Police Service and NTSA will intensify the ongoing nationwide enforcement and impound all unroadworthy vehicles.
The crackdown will also affect those not integrated with the intelligent road safety management system for transmission of speed limiter data.
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Reason For the Measures
Murkomen highlighted the accident involving a Kenyatta University bus and a truck in Voi that claimed the lives of 11 students and left 46 others injured and a matatu crash that claimed lives on Migori-Rongo highway.
According to the CS, the Ministry of Transport in conjunction with the police and the National Transport and Safety Authority will investigate the cause of these accidents.
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“These accidents have caused unimaginable grief and suffering to the victims and their families. With the support of various state agencies, investigations are ongoing to determine the causes of these accidents and appropriate remedial action shall be taken,” he noted.
Murkomen also indicated that the authorities will be even more keen as Easter festivities and the closing of schools across Kenya nears.
“I urge all road users to be cautious about their safety and the safety of others to prevent the needless loss of lives. The statement read in part. We must all observe traffic laws, regulations and common courtesy while behind the wheel. It should be appreciated that life is not only precious but irreplaceable,” he indicated.
