Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-04-19 09:00:29
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) issued a directive on Friday, April 19, urging parents and guardians to ensure that school buses used by their children undergo mandatory inspection. This mandatory inspection is essential to confirm the safety and reliability of school transport before the scheduled school reopening early next month.
In a statement, NTSA emphasized the importance of parents and guardians visiting their children’s schools to verify whether the school vehicles comply with all the requirements of the Traffic Act. This directive aligns with a previous directive from Transport Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen regarding the mandatory inspection of school vehicles.
“We urge all schools to comply with the directive to avoid any inconveniences to learners and parents/guardians as the 1st of May 2024 deadline approaches,” NTSA reiterated. As of Thursday, April 18, several schools had already presented their vehicles for inspection to assess their mechanical condition and ensure compliance with safety regulations.
During the inspection process, one key aspect considered was the functionality of the speed limiters installed on the vehicles. This ensures that school buses adhere to the prescribed speed limits, enhancing the safety of students during transportation.
On April 9, CS Murkomen introduced a series of measures aimed at improving road safety, particularly concerning school transport. The regulations outlined by Murkomen require school transport providers to have valid comprehensive insurance cover, employ qualified drivers and school vehicle attendants, and install fire extinguishers on all school buses.
Additionally, school buses must be painted yellow with code FFD800, have the words “School Bus” prominently printed on both sides, and display “Do not pass when red lights are flashing” in black block letters at the rear. Furthermore, the drivers are responsible for the vehicle and the students’ health, safety, and welfare while in transit.
It is crucial for schools and transport providers to adhere to these regulations to ensure the safety of students during their commute. By enforcing these measures, NTSA and the government aim to reduce road accidents involving school vehicles and create a safer environment for students across the country.
In conclusion, the mandatory inspection of school buses is a proactive step towards enhancing road safety and ensuring the well-being of students. Parents, guardians, schools, and transport providers play a vital role in complying with these regulations to create a secure transportation system for students as they return to school.
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