The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) issued a cautionary note to all public service transport vehicles (PSVs) on Tuesday ahead of schools closing for the August holiday break.
In a statement shared across their social media platforms, Samuel Musumba, the NTSA Safety Manager, announced that the Authority, in collaboration with various government agencies, including the National Police Service (NPS), would intensify road surveillance to enhance the safety of children.
Mr. Musumba cautioned illegal PSV operators, announcing that the NTSA and police would enhance their surveillance efforts to ensure the safety of not only students returning home from school but also the general public.
He also cautioned drivers about the continuing rains and fluctuating weather conditions that could impair visibility for motorists travelling to various regions of the country.
“We want to ensure that the vehicles transporting these children are in optimal condition. It is a source of concern that some of these vehicles have not yet undergone inspection. Both private and public service drivers should anticipate increased traffic on our roads this week due to students travelling to and from various destinations. We ask the public to be patient as we continue our surveillance efforts,” he stated.
Musumba criticized matatu owners for prioritizing their own interests over the safety of students. He cautioned them against overloading their vehicles, highlighting that the practice largely contributed to a rise in accidents. Furthermore, he urged school administrators to thoroughly check the vehicles that transport students to ensure their safety.
He also addressed concerns regarding students being rowdy aboard PSVs, emphasizing that the authority would be on the lookout to detain those breaking the law.
“NTSA will collaborate with the schools of students who have been found participating in untoward behavior on our roads as has been seen in previous cases,” he said.
Musumba warned against speeding, noting that some drivers try to make additional trips to boost their earnings. He assured the public that the Authority would take action against all matatus found violating these guidelines.
The decision follows a series of accidents reported in recent months, some of which involved students returning home for the holidays that resulted in casualties and serious injuries.
