Chirchir gazettes new rules on drunk driving, school vans

Transport CS Davis Chirchir. [File, Standard]

Transport Cabinet Secretary Davis Chirchir has gazetted proposed traffic regulations and invited public views, opening a 14-day window for written submissions.

The draft rules cover vehicle inspections, school transport safety and drink driving. They aim to tighten legal frameworks under the Traffic Act and the National Transport and Safety Authority Act.

In a notice dated Wednesday, June 18, the ministry announced that the proposals include mandatory inspections for vehicles older than four years and all commercial, school and public service vehicles.

The school transport rules would require safety standards such as seat belts and fire extinguishers, alongside licensing for drivers and attendants. They also propose limiting operational hours and prohibiting the use of school vehicles for unauthorised private purposes.

The drink driving rules introduced use prescribed alcohol limits, allow for breathalyser and blood tests and spell out penalties for refusing to cooperate with law enforcement.

Chirchir said the proposals also seek to streamline inspections, improve accountability and enhance road safety.

“These rules are intended to reduce accidents and ensure that vehicles on our roads meet basic safety standards,” said Chirchir.

The commercial vehicle regulations under the National Transport and Safety Authority Act would introduce licensing requirements, safety audits and a framework for penalties and appeals.

According to the ministry, all persons likely to be affected are urged to submit memoranda via email or post to the Transport Ministry or the National Transport and Safety Authority.

The proposed regulations and impact statements are available on the ministry’s website and can be requested in hard copy during working hours.

Chirchir noted that the government intends to fast-track implementation after the feedback period ends.