CSs give tough conditions to motorists to curb accidents

A trailer that hist two matatus at Ngata area along the Nakuru-Eldoret Highway killing eight people. [Kennedy Gachuhi, Nakuru].

Driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, dangerous overtaking, fatigue and ignoring traffic lights and road signage are some of the top causes of accidents on Kenyan roads.

Roads Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen and his Interior counterpart Kithure Kindiki yesterday said most accidents are avoidable and urged all road users to observe traffic rules.

These include no speeding, no overloading and no night operation without a valid licence

Mr Murkomen said 90 per cent of the fatalities are preventable.

To curb road carnage, which has gone up, the CS said the government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy that entails public awareness and enforcement.

"We are working with citizens to promote personal responsibility by encouraging passengers to speak out against reckless driving and other habits that endanger people's lives," he said.

He was speaking during a joint press conference between the Ministry of Interior and National Administration and Roads and Transport in Nairobi.

"An analysis by National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) shows a 3 per cent increase in road carnage as of December 15, with fatalities standing at 4,449 compared to 4,285 during the same period last year," said Murkomen.

Some 9,357 sustained serious injuries and slight injuries at 6,704 as pedestrians accounted for the highest fatalities at 1,595.

They were followed by motorcyclists (1,190), passengers (793), drivers (403), pillion (motorcycle passengers) at 411 and pedal cyclists at 57.

The months with highest deaths were July and August at 432 and 395 respectively compared to 2021 at 432 and 395.

Kindiki said there is a correlation between the increase in accidents and the high number of vehicles on the roads at this time of the year.

"But the high number of accidents also points to human error and the merrymaking and other indulgences typical of the festive season," said Kindiki.

"Our records over the years and the investigations that followed yielded overwhelming evidence that many of these accidents are preventable," he said.

He added: "This is achievable if road users practise sensible road mannerisms, observing traffic regulations and a stricter enforcement of and compliance with traffic rules."

The government launched a 2022 December Festivity Enforcement Initiative, which Murkomen said takes cognisance that many accidents happen at night due to poor visibility.

Murkomen urged motorists, especially those driving heavy commercial vehicles and public service vehicles operating at night, to implement measures that will enhance visibility.

This include proper positioning of signage such as triangles, chevrons and retro-reflective.

"Additionally, motor vehicle owners must move with speed to remove stalled vehicles within one hour of an incident, and ensure proper signs are placed at safe distances on the road to warn approaching motorists," he said.

The CS also said he has instructed road agencies including Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), Kenya Urban Roads Authority (KURA) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (KeRRA) to heighten surveillance on roads.

He also instructed them to ensure all stalled vehicles are towed within one hour to enable smooth flow of traffic.

"I have further directed KeNHA and KURA to ensure vehicles passing through weighbridges are roadworthy as per the requirements of the Traffic Act. Cases of noncompliance must be reported to law enforcement," he added.

Kindiki said he had instructed police to crack down on those flouting our traffic rules.

He said Inspector General Japheth Koome had been instructed to provide his officers with the necessary support to enforce the safety of every Kenyan on roads.

"We expect 100 per cent compliance with the relevant traffic requirements by motorists and other road users. These rules must be observed in their entirety by all,'' said Kindiki.

Asked if alcoblow will be reintroduced, Kindiki said: "We will enforce the law using all means necessary. You drink and drive at your own peril. This time around we will be extremely ruthless."

Under the 2022 December Festivity Enforcement Initiative, officers will be on the lookout for those speeding, overloading goods, carrying excess passengers, contravening Public Service Vehicle (PSV) route, night operation without a valid night travel licence and operating a PSV without valid licences.

Others include operating vehicles without valid inspection, installation of unlawful lights on motor vehicles, drink driving, delayed removal of stalled vehicles, and any other traffic infringements.

The transport CS also warned PSV operators, who take advantage of the festive season to maximise profit.

"Drivers have often been overworked and servicing of vehicles overlooked. Ensure drivers are well rested and vehicles well serviced," he said.