Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Kenyans.co.ke
Published on 2024-04-13 16:25:26
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) is considering revising speed limits on various roads as part of their efforts to enhance road safety. In their draft strategic plan for 2023-2027, NTSA highlighted the importance of reducing speed limits on roads with high pedestrian activity to help reduce the growing number of accidents.
Currently, speed limits on roads vary from 50 kilometres per hour to 80 kilometres per hour, depending on the surrounding institutions and activities. However, on certain highways, the speed limits slightly exceed the 100 km/hr threshold. NTSA also suggests using traffic calming measures such as narrowing road speed tables and implementing mini-roundabouts to address speeding issues.
In addition to revising speed limits, NTSA proposes the installation of barriers on road sections where accidents frequently occur. The agency plans to develop new safety design manuals aligned with the safe system approach, which assumes user error will happen and focuses on providing physical safety protections like median and roadside barriers on high-speed roads to prevent head-on and run-off-road crashes.
Moreover, NTSA aims to include roundabouts and speed control platforms in the road designs for the country to address side-on crashes at intersections. By addressing primary crash issues through these safety design manuals, NTSA can further develop manuals focusing on areas like signs and markings, safety at road works, and promoting good maintenance practices.
The issue of road accidents has been a growing concern in Kenya, with over 1,000 deaths reported since the beginning of the year. Pedestrians are particularly vulnerable, with 445 pedestrian fatalities recorded between January 1, 2024, and April 3, 2024. To mitigate these tragedies, NTSA is working towards implementing safety measures on the roads to protect all road users.
To support these efforts, NTSA is looking into integrating safe road design and management standards on the Northern Corridor and removing regulatory barriers to private sector investment in Roadside Stations on the Corridor. These investments must align with design principles aimed at eliminating fatal and serious injuries.
In conclusion, NTSA’s proactive approach towards road safety is essential in reducing accidents and saving lives. By revising speed limits, implementing traffic calming measures, and developing comprehensive safety design manuals, NTSA aims to create a safer road environment for all users. It is crucial for all stakeholders to support these initiatives to prevent further loss of lives due to road accidents.
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