The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has unveiled plans to roll out mandatory inspections for all heavy commercial vehicles in a move aimed at reducing the increasing number of road accidents. This development marks a significant shift in Kenya’s road safety strategy, particularly targeting vehicles that weigh over five tonnes.
Currently, heavy commercial vehicles are not required to undergo compulsory inspections. However, the new measures will now mandate that each vehicle be thoroughly examined before being allowed on the road. This step comes amid growing concern over the high rate of road accidents linked to these large vehicles, which are often involved in fatal crashes due to mechanical failure, poor maintenance, or reckless driving.
The NTSA has underscored that commercial vehicles have become one of the leading contributors to road carnage, and stricter regulation is necessary to protect all road users. By introducing mandatory inspections, the authority aims to ensure that these vehicles meet essential safety and mechanical standards before they are allowed to operate.
Alongside vehicle inspections, NTSA is also placing emphasis on public sensitisation, targeting various categories of road users including pedestrians, motorcyclists, and commercial vehicle operators. The authority believes that reducing accidents requires a joint effort where every individual on the road bears responsibility for safety. Particular focus is being placed on the bodaboda (motorcycle taxi) sector, which continues to report high accident rates due to inadequate training, poor safety gear usage, and disregard for traffic rules.
As part of its wider strategy to enhance road safety, the NTSA recently drafted new regulatory proposals for all commercial service vehicles in Kenya. This draft, developed earlier in the year, outlines eight key requirements aimed at ensuring safer vehicle operation on Kenyan roads.
One of the major proposals is the enforcement of third-party insurance for all commercial vehicles. This move is designed to ensure that victims of road accidents involving commercial vehicles can receive compensation in the event of injury or damage.
Another requirement is a valid vehicle inspection certificate, proving that the vehicle has undergone a thorough check by authorised personnel. To further regulate vehicle behavior on the road, all commercial vehicles will also be required to install speed limiters that conform to the standards set by the Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS). These devices are meant to prevent vehicles from exceeding safe speed limits, thereby reducing the risk of high-speed collisions.
In addition, commercial vehicles must be equipped with vehicular telematics systems. These systems provide real-time tracking and diagnostics, allowing for better fleet management and accountability on the part of drivers and operators. To enhance visibility, vehicles will also be required to display retro-reflective contour markings with a minimum width of two inches.
The draft regulations also stipulate that where applicable, vehicles must have underride protection devices installed at the rear and sides. These devices are crucial in preventing smaller vehicles from sliding underneath trucks during a collision, significantly reducing the severity of injuries in such incidents.
Finally, all commercial vehicles will be required to carry an easily accessible fire extinguisher and first-aid kit. These items are critical in managing emergencies such as fires or injuries at the scene of an accident, and their presence could mean the difference between life and death.
Through these initiatives, NTSA aims to foster a culture of road safety and responsibility. The comprehensive inspection and regulation framework is expected to curb road accidents involving commercial vehicles and create safer roads for all.
