Londiani Junction Accident Death Toll Reaches 51, Government Plans Hawker Relocation
As of Saturday at 11 a.m., Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen reported that the death toll from the gruesome accident at Londiani Junction had risen to 51.
According to the CS, the government is working to relocate highway vendors and open-air markets.
The accident occurred at 7 p.m. on June 30. When a truck traveling from Nakuru to Kericho lost control and collided with several matatus, private vehicles, and motorcycles.
It also collided with roadside vendors at the Muhoroni exit.
The CS disclosed that the accident-involved truck is not locally owned and is registered in Rwanda.
On the highway, the truck’s brakes reportedly failed as it descended a slope. “It is difficult to determine the roadworthiness of the truck at this time because we must consult with the Rwandan government,” said Mr. Murkomen.
He added that enforcement of traffic laws in East Africa should be uniform to reduce accidents and loss of life.
“Drivers will be subjected to medical examinations, and those found guilty of traffic violations will have their licenses revoked,” he stated.
According to the CS, individuals with high blood pressure, diabetes, and other chronic diseases. That impair concentration while driving on highways will also be affected by the enforcement of traffic laws.
ALSO READ: Harrowing Account: Driver Reveals Londiani Tragedy Details
Hawkers transfer
Mr. Murkomen stated that moving forward, county governments should acquire land for the construction of open-air markets along highways. Adding that the national government will fund the projects.
“After consultations, I will issue a directive to ensure that all Kenya National Highways Authority (Kenha) and Kenya Rural Roads Authority (Kura) roads are designed so that people can conduct business without endangering the lives of others,” he added.
Mr. Murkomen praised the media for its coverage of the tragedy. Mr. Murkomen stated, “The media has been consistent, accurate, and responsible in its coverage of the incident, and I thank you for that.”
Murkomen visited the scene with Senate Majority Leader Aaron Cheruiyot, Governor of Kericho Erick Mutai, Deputy Governor Fred Kirui, Member of Parliament for Kipkelion East Joseph Cherorot, and his Belgut counterpart Nelson Koech on Saturday morning.
Dr. Mutai declared that his administration will collaborate with the federal government to reduce road fatalities in the region.
“We would not want a similar accident to occur in the future. Dr. Mutai lamented that the majority of those who perished were women and young people who were struggling to provide for their families.
Londiani Junction Accident Death Toll Reaches 51, Government Plans Hawker Relocation
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