Nairobi unveils radical measures for easier traffic flow

Central matatus parked along Ronald Ngala street in Nairobi. Photo/FILE
Central matatus parked along Ronald Ngala street in Nairobi. Photo/FILE

A two-way flow for all matatus in the Nairobi CBD is one of several new radical measures to reduce congestion and

ease traffic flow.

Deputy Governor Jonathan Mueke made the announcement on Friday, saying the county governement has come up with immediate, short, medium and long-term plans.

"All the matatus from the East will exit through the West and all those from the North through the South," Mueke said.

"They will only be passing within the central business district to pick and drop passengers at designated points."

He spoke at City Hall on Friday

after a meeting of the county government, Matatu Welfare Association and the Matatu Owners Association.

Others present were the National Transport and Safety Authority,

the inspectorate department, business fraternity, corporates and several matatu saccos.

Mueke said a new terminus, that will have 24-hour operations,

will be established at Muthurwa for buses

from upcountry.

Saccos will be reorganised to become bigger and stronger, he said, adding matatu operators have until next Wednesday to surrender their parking licenses to City Hall for verification.

"We are focused on restoring order in the public service sector [by ensuring] courtesy, observation of transport rules, cleanliness of vehicles and avoidance of noise pollution," he said.

The meeting also resolved to establish a temporary working committee on transport, involving all stakeholders, that will ensure all pending issues are addressed.

The committee will stand until the Nairobi Metropolitan Transport Authority is formed.

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