Traffic Commandant Mary Omari has revealed the elaborate plans the department is making to ensure safety and security during next month's World Rally Championships (WRC) Safari Rally.
The preparations include extensive collaboration with various stakeholders, enhanced medical and emergency response capabilities, and a comprehensive education initiative.
With the cars traversing through Nairobi and Nakuru counties, covering a distance of 1,200km, Omari said it is important to involve both the competitors and spectators along the route.
“One of the important aspects involves identifying and marking high-risk areas along critical segments along the Nairobi-Nakuru highway," said Omari.
"We have already identified these sections and strategies are in place to deploy ample personnel to address any issues that may arise, to provide swift response in case of accidents,” Omari said.
They will have tow trucks to ensure minimum obstruction in case a vehicle breaks down as well as emergency response services.
“We will be liaising with the Nakuru county government to ensure that the hospitals are ready for any emergency,” she added.
"In addition to deploying our officers, we will work with the Nakuru, Uasin Gishu and Nyandarua County traffic divisions, the National Youth Service, Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service and the General Service Unit,” Omari added.
Omari said they will also liaise with the media and schools to create awareness among the spectators on the dos and don'ts during the March 28-31 showpiece
In addition, they will use the media to relay alerts if and whenever situations arise.
She expects a huge turnout, now that the event has returned to its traditional Easter holidays.
"In 2022, we experienced traffic jams, snarl-ups and gridlocks but this was rectified last year. We are hoping to do an even better job this time," said Omari.
