The decision to compel trucks and buses to use the Mombasa-Nairobi Expressway once it is constructed is likely driven by several strategic reasons aimed at improving future transportation efficiency, safety, and economic benefits. Here are the key considerations:
Reasons for Future Compulsion
Once the expressway is completed, diverting heavy vehicles like trucks and buses from regular roads to the expressway will significantly reduce traffic congestion in urban and peri-urban areas. This will lead to smoother traffic flow for smaller vehicles and reduce travel time for all road users.
Heavy vehicles sharing roads with smaller, lighter vehicles often increase the risk of accidents. The new expressway will be designed to handle large vehicles with dedicated lanes, better infrastructure, and advanced safety features, thereby reducing the likelihood of accidents.
Regular roads are often not built to withstand the constant pressure and weight of heavy trucks and buses. By redirecting these vehicles to the new expressway, the wear and tear on regular roads will be minimized, extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
The expressway will offer a faster and more direct route between Mombasa and Nairobi, potentially reducing travel time and fuel consumption for freight and passenger transport. This will lead to cost savings for logistics companies and bus operators, contributing to overall economic efficiency.
The expressway will likely be a toll road, and directing heavy vehicles to use it will increase toll revenue. This revenue can be used to maintain the expressway and invest in further infrastructure development.
The expressway will streamline logistics operations, making it easier and faster to transport goods between the port city of Mombasa and the capital, Nairobi. This will enhance trade efficiency and support economic growth.
Future Implications
While the expressway will offer numerous benefits, the toll charges may increase operational costs for truck and bus operators. However, these costs may be offset by savings in fuel and reduced vehicle wear and tear.
Ensuring that trucks and buses comply with this mandate will require effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms. This might involve setting up checkpoints, using technology for tracking, and imposing penalties for non-compliance.
As heavy vehicles move to the expressway, smaller roads will see a reduction in damage and congestion, leading to improved conditions for local traffic and smaller vehicles.
Smoother traffic flow and reduced congestion will lead to lower emissions from idling vehicles, contributing to environmental conservation efforts.
