A man was filmed blocking a matatu driver who attempted to use a pedestrian walkway to bypass traffic.
The man, who was carrying a black bag, stood directly in front of the matatu and refused to move, effectively preventing the vehicle from proceeding along the walkway.
In a video seen by the Star, the matatu driver appeared unable to advance as the man maintained his position in defiance. After a brief standoff, the driver reversed and exited the walkway.
Recently, there has been a trend where motorists encroach on pedestrian paths in a bid to evade traffic congestion.
Pedestrian walkways are designated for foot traffic, and their use by motor vehicles poses significant safety risks to members of the public.
On February 12, t
he National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) suspended a matatu driver for 90 days following a dramatic incident at Allsops in which the vehicle reportedly invaded a pedestrian walkway.The matter came to light after a social media user raised an alarm over what was described as a confrontation between the driver and a member of the public who refused to give way after the matatu encroached onto the pedestrian path.
“Happening now at Allsops, drama started when a matatu driver invaded a pedestrian walkway. A brave man refused to give way. We need to speak up against drivers who endanger pedestrians’ lives,” the user posted, tagging NTSA.
Responding to the alert, NTSA said it had taken note of the incident, terming it unfortunate and dangerous.
“Our attention is drawn to the unfortunate incident that puts pedestrians’ lives at risk and damages road infrastructure. We will follow up with the Sacco and update the public on the actions taken,” the Authority said.
In a subsequent update, NTSA confirmed that the driver, attached to a Sacco, had been presented before the Authority for action.
“The driver underwent the required test and did not meet the set standards. As a result, his driving license has been suspended for a period of ninety (90) days,” NTSA said.
NTSA directed that the driver must undergo a medical assessment before undertaking a subsequent retest.
NTSA urged motorists to exercise responsibility on the roads and strictly adhere to traffic regulations, emphasising the need to give priority to pedestrians.
“We commend the public for reporting incidents of reckless driving and for partnering with us in promoting road safety,” the Authority added.
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