Lubao FM News 
By Wycliffe Andabwa
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has ramped up road compliance checks in an effort to ensure safety as students transition home for the August holiday. In a statement released on Tuesday, NTSA Director General George Njao cautioned motorists to anticipate increased traffic on various roads due to a surge in students traveling from school to their homes. This move aims to mitigate risks associated with the seasonal influx of pedestrians, particularly vulnerable children.
In his public address, Njao emphasized the importance of compliance with traffic regulations and signs. “There will be heightened compliance checks by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to ensure that vehicles comply with set regulations,” he said. He outlined that the initiative is not only about ticketing violations but also about promoting a safer driving culture. The NTSA’s focus on safety aims to remind drivers of their responsibility to adhere to traffic laws.
The director general urged motorists to resist the urge to speed, even if this may allow them to make more trips. “The safety of our students and other road users is paramount,” Njao stated, reinforcing the message that adherence to road safety is a shared responsibility. He encouraged drivers to plan ahead and allow extra travel time to accommodate the increased traffic and the presence of students on the roads. Being considerate towards others, particularly students, is crucial during this busy period.
In addition to heightened road checks, last month the Ministry of Transport proposed that all Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) and school buses be equipped with dash cameras and GPS trackers. This proposal aims to further enhance road safety measures and significantly reduce the number of road accidents occurring nationwide. The then Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen highlighted the benefits of implementing GPS trackers in vehicles. The technology would allow for better monitoring of vehicle speeds and routes taken, providing crucial data to improve safety compliance.
Murkomen articulated that the introduction of such technology could lead to increased accountability among drivers and transport companies. By keeping a comprehensive record of travel patterns and speeds, authorities can identify problem areas and address them proactively. This innovative approach seeks to deter reckless driving behaviors that often lead to accidents. The integration of technology in public transportation is viewed as a progressive step toward enhancing overall safety.
The community response to these initiatives has been largely positive, with many parents acknowledging the importance of safer travel for their children. Local parents have expressed their concerns about road safety, especially during holiday periods when traffic surges. Among them is a heightened focus on the need for drivers to be vigilant in residential areas, where children often cross streets. The prevailing sentiment reflects a community prioritizing safety, particularly for its younger members.
The NTSA has committed to conducting these compliance checks rigorously throughout the holiday period. Motorists can expect to see increased patrols and roadblocks aimed at ensuring safety standards are upheld. The authority will also engage in public awareness campaigns about the importance of responsible driving habits during this time. By fostering a culture of safety on the roads, the NTSA hopes to protect not only students but all road users.
As students prepare to embark on their holiday journeys, the NTSA is determined to ensure that safety remains a top priority. With increased visibility on the roads and a commitment to enforcing traffic regulations, the authority aims to create a safer environment for the community. Njao’s message underscores the critical need for cooperation among all road users during this peak travel season. Ultimately, the aim is to facilitate a holiday period that is enjoyable and, most importantly, safe for all.
