The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has directed all public service vehicle drivers to ensure their vehicles, crew and routes comply with safety regulations.

🇰🇪 Breaking It Down

NTSA stated on Friday, September 25, that PSV operators must ensure their crew is qualified, verified and properly supervised to enhance professionalism in the transport sector.

According to the Authority, operators must also ensure their vehicles are properly licensed, inspected and maintained in roadworthy condition, with regular checks and maintenance records properly kept.

Operators are also required to ensure their businesses are properly registered , governed and managed, with clear systems showing responsibility for different aspects of the PSV business.

📌 What You Need to Know

NTSA further identified routes as part of the compliance requirements, directing operators to ensure their vehicles use authorised routes and make lawful stops.

The Traffic Act provides for a Ksh3,000 fine for any PSV driver who picks up or drops off passengers at an unauthorised bus stop or designated terminal.

The law also provides for a fine of up to Ksh400,000 or imprisonment for up to two years for motorists who use unroadworthy vehicles, while using an unlicensed vehicle attracts a fine of up to Ksh10,000 or three months’ imprisonment.

In its advisory to operators, NTSA also listed passenger service among the key compliance areas, requiring PSV operators to provide safe and fair services to all their passengers.

"The operator is accountable for the systems that keep the enterprise, vehicles, routes, crew and passenger service compliant," NTSA stated.

To further enhance road safety, the Authority directed all PSV operators to maintain records demonstrating compliance with regulatory requirements and applicable laws.

📰 Source: Kenyans.co.ke