The Northern Corridor has witnessed an alarming rise in road accidents, with an 18% increase compared to last year. Authorities attribute this surge largely to the vandalism of critical road signs and guard rails, endangering lives and hindering road safety efforts.
According to Traffic Commandant Dr. Fredrick Ochieng, the ongoing destruction of road infrastructure has created a hazardous environment for motorists and pedestrians alike. “We have seen road accidents rise by 18% compared to the same period last year, and vandalism targeting road signage has played a part,” he remarked during the launch of a new initiative aimed at mitigating accident-related injuries.
Community First Aid Initiative
In response to the growing crisis, St. John Ambulance, with support from UN Habitat, has established a community First Aid post in Kinungi, Naivasha. The post, situated along the bustling Nairobi-Nakuru highway, is part of a six-month pilot project designed to provide immediate first aid to road accident victims while promoting road safety awareness.
Dr. James Wanjagi of St. John Ambulance emphasized the importance of this project in addressing the dire situation along the Kinungi, Karai, and Naivasha corridor. “This First Aid post, which is fully equipped and operational 24/7, will be instrumental in reducing fatalities and injuries from road accidents along this highway,” he stated.
The project is a collaborative effort involving government agencies such as the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), the Kenya National Highways Authority (KENHA), and traffic police. By combining resources and expertise, these entities aim to address the multifaceted challenges posed by road accidents.
A Call to Action Against Vandalism
The vandalism of road signs and guard rails remains a significant obstacle in the fight to enhance road safety. These vital infrastructures are often stripped for scrap or other uses, leaving stretches of highway without adequate warnings or guidance for drivers. Dr. Ochieng urged members of the public to report vandals, emphasizing the critical role road signs play in ensuring safe travel.
“The biggest challenge that we have faced in the ongoing road safety campaign is vandalism targeting road signage and guard rails along the Northern Corridor,” noted Nakuru NTSA Regional Manager Joseph Gichohi. He added that educating communities on the importance of preserving road infrastructure is essential in curbing the vice.
Pedestrian Safety and Other Concerns
Beyond vandalism, improper pedestrian behavior has also contributed to the spike in accidents. Many pedestrians disregard designated crossing points, opting instead to navigate busy highways at undesignated areas. This dangerous practice persists even in locations equipped with footbridges, prompting authorities to consider stricter enforcement measures.
“We shall have to use the law to get pedestrians to cross roads at designated points. It’s a matter of safety,” Dr. Ochieng warned.
Ahead of the Festive Season
With the festive season approaching, concerns over drink-driving have also come to the fore. According to Dr. Wanjagi, alcohol consumption among drivers remains a leading cause of accidents during this period. He called for heightened vigilance and stricter enforcement of traffic laws to deter such behavior.
Hope for the Future
The launch of the Kinungi First Aid post represents a beacon of hope amid the challenges. Regional stakeholders believe that this initiative will save lives, reduce injury severity, and foster a culture of road safety among communities along the Northern Corridor.
As road safety campaigns gain momentum, authorities stress that cooperation from the public is paramount. Protecting road infrastructure, adhering to traffic rules, and promoting responsible road use will be critical in reversing the rising trend of road accidents.
In the words of NTSA’s Gichohi, “This project is a step in the right direction, and we hope it will inspire more sustainable efforts to make our roads safer for all users.”
