Overloaded PSV carrying students impounded in Tharaka Nithi

NTSA cracks down on overloaded PSV, driver flees scene leaving students stranded. [NTSA]

The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) impounded a 14-seater Public Service Vehicle (PSV) carrying 31 students in Tharaka Nithi County on Saturday, March 30.

The driver managed to escape, leaving the students unattended.

"Efforts are underway to apprehend the driver," the NTSA stated in a statement on X.

"Alternative transport arrangements were made for the learners."

The authority said the vehicle was subsequently towed to the police station for further processing.

NTSA stressed the responsibility of drivers and school management in ensuring the safety of children.

"Those entrusted with the safety of our children must understand their responsibility," the authority stated.

"Together, let's ensure our children arrive home safely."

A multi-agency team, comprising officers from the NTSA and National Police Service, has been erecting roadblocks in efforts to ensure compliance by sector players.

On Friday, the NTSA suspended the operator licenses for two Saccos.

The authority directed the Saccos to comply with all the requirements of the Traffic Act and the PSV regulations, and to present all the vehicles in their fleets for inspection.

It further stated that all the drivers of both Saccos are to undergo road safety sensitisation.