The National Transport and Safety Authority has announced plans to lower speed limits to 30km/h along stretches of Thika Road that host schools for children with special needs. The measure aims to enhance safety for students who may require extra time to cross the busy highway.
During a meeting with PSV operators in Kiambu on Thursday, NTSA officials said the adjustment will focus on areas including Thika Town, Ngara, and Karasani, where institutions cater to learners with mild autism and other special needs.
“In Thika Town, Ngara and Karasani, there are schools that have students who have special needs. Some cater for students with mild autism, so in the coming days the speed limit shall be reduced to around 30 km/h,” Francis Kiragu, an NTSA officer, said.
“This will give students enough time to cross the roads. As drivers, we should adhere to the set speed limits on our roads to guarantee safety.”
Traffic enforcement teams have pledged to collaborate with Kiambu-based PSV saccos to ensure drivers follow the new limits and other traffic regulations. Officials stressed that consistent discipline among motorists is critical to preventing road accidents.
“Discipline is key. When a traffic officer stops you, you should stop. Drivers should stop this habit of defying orders, because when the officer stops you, he/she wants to reason with you so that you may discuss where the problem is,” one officer said.
Sacco leaders also expressed support for NTSA’s recently launched instant fines system, saying it will promote compliance and reduce crashes along major roads.
Launched on March 9, the instant fines initiative allows motorists to receive immediate notifications via SMS when they commit offences such as speeding, driving on pavements, lane violations, or failing to wear seatbelts. Penalties range from Sh500 to Sh10,000 depending on the nature of the violation.
However, the rollout was temporarily halted after the High Court issued a conservatory order on March 10, following a legal challenge by lawyer Shadrack Wambui. The court has scheduled further hearings for April 9.