The government has suspended the operating license of Modern Coast Express bus company over a string of accidents that have left nearly 40 people dead in less than five months.
Suspending the license Transport Minister Kipchumba Murkomen ordered all the company buses be withdrawn from the road.
“Following the 28th December accident, I have directed NTSA to suspend all operations of the Modern Coast bus company with immediate effect, as investigations into the accident continue,” he said.
He said the accident that killed one person and left scores injured raises concerns about the state of operations and safety levels at the bus company coming just months after the River Nithi accident that occurred on 24th July 2022, leaving 36 people dead and many others injured.
He said the July accident led to the suspension of the license of the bus company for three months.
“The operations were allowed to resume in November this year after the company complied with all the conditions that had been set for them,” said Murkomen.
He said the bus company must also ensure that all passengers who had booked with them are facilitated to allow for safe and seamless travel to their destinations.
He warned transport companies that they need to ensure vehicles are well-serviced and drivers well-rested before taking to the road.
Murkomen added that there should be proper display and positioning of signage like triangles, chevrons, and retro-reflective
Stalled vehicles must be towed within one hour, observing speed limits and passenger capacity, adherence to designated routes, and paying attention to traffic signs and traffic lights.
He said motorists must also avoid reckless overtaking, overlapping, and driving under the influence of alcohol.
“As a Ministry, we take the matter of road safety seriously and we will not hesitate to take stern action against anyone flouting traffic rules in our efforts to preserve and protect the lives of Kenyans,” he said.
