The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has sounded the alarm over a growing trend of non-compliance among Public Service Vehicles (PSVs), particularly matatus, across the country.
In a public notice issued on Tuesday, May 27, the Authority expressed concern over the widespread use of unauthorized graffiti and artistic modifications on PSVs, which it says are obstructing key identification features such as the name of the SACCO or company, the designated route, and the mandatory yellow line that marks licensed PSVs.
“A notable number of vehicles have been modified through the application of graffiti and other unauthorized artistic enhancements, resulting in the inability to clearly identify the name of the Sacco or Company under which the vehicle operates, its designated route, or the mandatory continuous yellow line that distinguishes licensed PSVs,” read the NTSA statement.
NTSA further noted that several vehicles were operating without displaying the required NTSA operational stickers or any other official identification marks, which undermines efforts to regulate and monitor the sector effectively.
“Furthermore, a number of these motor vehicles have failed to conspicuously display the official NTSA operational sticker, or any other identifying mark issued by the Authority, rendering regulatory verification and enforcement ineffective,” the Authority added.
The NTSA warned that such violations not only hinder enforcement but also erode public trust in the PSV sector by creating confusion about the legitimacy of the operators.
As a result, the Authority has ordered all licensed PSV operators to conduct an immediate and comprehensive audit of their fleets to ensure full compliance with the 2014 PSV Regulations.
Operators found in violation risk facing serious consequences, including the impoundment of their vehicles, suspension, or cancellation of operating licenses.
“All licensed Public Transport Operators are hereby directed to conduct an immediate and comprehensive audit of their fleets to ensure full compliance with the requirements of the Regulations,” the notice emphasized.
The NTSA concluded with a stern warning that regulatory action will be taken against individual vehicle owners and operators who fail to comply with the directives.
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