In an effort to reduce traffic jams during rush hour, the Kiambu County government established traffic marshals in major towns, markets, and streets.
After complaints from residents about traffic congestion and disorderly drivers in County, the officers who were brought in last week will be able to bring order to the towns.
Kimani Wamatangi, Kiambu Governor, stated that 31 spots have been identified, mostly as markets and major highways, where officers will be stationed.
He said the growing county’s population and its interaction with Nairobi City in areas of trade or otherwise has made it busy leading to the huge snarl-ups during rush hours as people move in and out of the county.
The governor stated that officers will work closely alongside traffic police and will be expected respect professionalism in their duties.
He identified Makongeni in Thika market, Githurai marketplace, Kahawa Sukari as major bus stages where marshals should be deployed. It takes vehicles hours to get in and exit these areas.
“Movement in our towns during rush hours has always been stagnant, especially in areas not manned by traffic police. This has informed our decision to introduce traffic marshals to help direct traffic and bring order in the towns and help save time on our roads,” said Wamatangi.
Matatu operators in Thika welcomed the move, stating that they no longer have to wait long to get from the main stage to their routes. They were led by Daniel Kimani and said that the officers had brought order to the main stage, which has helped passengers get to their destinations on time.
“We used to take more than 30 minutes to get out of the main stage. The area was disorderly and bred muggers who would snatch mobile phones from passengers due to the slow moving vehicles,” said Kimani.
By Muoki Charlie
Source: kenyanews
