A tragic accident claimed the life of a pedestrian on Sunday night at Kapkwen area along the busy Bomet-Kisii highway. The fatal incident occurred as the individual attempted to cross the road and was struck by a bus operated by the Rembo Shuttle company. The accident underscores ongoing concerns about road safety, especially during the festive season when traffic volumes spike.
Circumstances of the Accident
According to Musa Omar Imamai, the Bomet Central Sub-county Police Commander, the bus was traveling from Narok towards Kisii at the time of the accident. He attributed the crash to the driver’s failure to exercise sufficient caution in an area known for high pedestrian activity during evening hours.
“The driver, unfamiliar with the route, was operating under a temporary permit to use the Narok highway during the festive season,” Omar stated. The lack of familiarity with the road’s nuances may have contributed to the tragic outcome.
The pedestrian, whose identity had not been disclosed at the time of the report, succumbed to injuries instantly. The body was transferred to Longisa Hospital mortuary as investigations into the accident continued.
Traffic Snarl-Up
The accident resulted in a significant traffic snarl-up along the Narok-Kisii highway, lasting for several hours. Vehicles in both directions were brought to a standstill, causing frustration for travelers and residents alike. Authorities worked to restore normal traffic flow, but the delays highlighted the challenges of managing emergencies on such a busy thoroughfare.
Pedestrian Safety Concerns
Police Commander Omar urged pedestrians to exercise heightened caution when crossing roads, particularly during peak travel times. He emphasized the importance of using zebra crossings and other designated areas to ensure safety.
“Many accidents can be avoided if both drivers and pedestrians adhere to traffic rules. We urge road users to prioritize safety, especially in areas with high foot traffic,” Omar added.
The festive season typically sees a surge in road activity as families travel to celebrate holidays. This increased movement often results in higher risks for pedestrians, especially in regions like Bomet where highways pass through heavily populated areas.
Unfamiliar Drivers Pose Risks
The incident has reignited concerns over the issuance of temporary permits to drivers unfamiliar with certain routes. While such permits are often necessary to accommodate increased travel demand during peak seasons, critics argue that they can compromise road safety if drivers are not adequately prepared.
The driver of the Rembo Shuttle bus is reportedly assisting police with investigations to determine the exact sequence of events leading up to the accident.
Community Reaction
Residents of Kapkwen expressed their sorrow over the tragedy and called for more proactive measures to enhance road safety. Suggestions included installing additional zebra crossings, speed bumps, and proper signage to warn drivers of pedestrian activity.
“This area is always busy during the evenings, yet drivers don’t seem to slow down. We need more safety measures to prevent such incidents,” said a local resident.
A Call for Vigilance
The accident serves as a grim reminder of the shared responsibility between drivers and pedestrians to ensure safety on the roads. While drivers must exercise caution and adhere to speed limits, pedestrians also need to be vigilant and use designated crossings whenever possible.
As investigations continue, the tragedy at Kapkwen highlights the pressing need for comprehensive measures to address road safety challenges, particularly during high-traffic periods. It is a sobering call for all road users to remain alert and prioritize lives over convenience.
