KENHA petitioned to block trucks from passing through Eldoret town

In his letter to KENHA, Albert Kimutai noted that Eldoret town and its immediate surroundings have become increasingly congested, both in human population and vehicular traffic. Kimutai argues that the continued passage of heavy-duty trucks through the central business district and residential areas of the town poses a serious and persistent risk to public safety.

Kimutai said a recent fatal accident involving a long-distance truck and a motorcycle, resulting in the death of a pillion passenger, was a heartbreaking event and is just one in a series of accidents that have occurred within Eldoret involving large trucks navigating through narrow, busy urban roads not designed for such heavy vehicles.

He said in addition to loss of life, the presence of trucks in town has led to increased traffic congestion, especially along Uganda Road and other main routes. He adds that there is road infrastructure strain and faster deterioration, air and noise pollution in residential and school zones and heightened danger for pedestrians, cyclists, and public service vehicles.

Kimutai further noted that the Eldoret Southern Bypass, which was constructed to ease such risks and improve traffic flow, remains underutilised by heavy commercial transport.