As school midterms start this week nationwide, Makueni County, through the Department of Transport, has embarked on a serious crackdown to streamline transport for the safety of school-going children during midterm travel.
Crackdown Intensifies During Midterm Travel
However, in most cases, during the midterm or school closings, there are public service vehicles (PSVs), whether organised by parents or taking advantage of the rush hour to ply routes without permits to pick children, but a few meet the road transport rules during midterm travel.
Makueni County Executive Committee Member (ECM) for Infrastructure, Transport, Public Works, Housing, and Energy, Engineer Peter Mumo, added that there will be a serious crackdown on vehicles plying all roads in Makueni County to enhance safety during midterm travel.
“You see, these ‘nganya’ our school-going children like them so much. It is so unfortunate that whatever happens inside is terrible. With tinted windows, loud music, uncouth behaviour inside, including the unimaginable and even drug abuse, that will not be tolerated anymore going forward. Remember, these children use the slightest opportunity they get to explore, and mostly using their bodies,” Mumo said.
Strengthening Safety Measures During Midterm Travel
He added that during such times, they always have problems in the transport sector.
Moreover, children must be protected against any harm, including predators, especially during midterm travel. Mumo noted that the outcome of one day might ruin the children’s future.
“As a government, we will be very keen. Any vehicle coming here must be permitted to ply the roads and be roadworthy. If you fail, we will arrest and fine you. I am calling upon all stakeholders to raise an alarm on any bending of traffic rules, and we will act accordingly,” Mumo said, reiterating that the ongoing measures are meant to safeguard students during midterm travel.
The ECM noted that they are working together with the national government team in Makueni in this exercise, and he is sure it will help a lot.
Consequently, he called upon parents, children, and even teachers to ensure they do not board overloaded or recklessly.
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By Lydia Ngoolo
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