Tough times as matatus keep off the roads

Long queues, empty bus stages and hiked fares became the norm on Monday morning due to matatu shortage in protest of the enforcement of Michuki rules by public service owners.

A spot check on Waiyaki way revealed that fares had shot up to Sh200 from the usual Sh50 while passengers on Githurai route parted with a minimum of Sh200.

“I got a ride from Kahawa Wendani to Ngara where the fare to Westlands was Sh200. I will wait until it goes lower so that I can go to work,” said Pauline Wamaitha.

Stranded commuters got creative with some opting to share UBER rides to work. Carpooling became an option as well with private car drivers offering space in their cars for some amount.

“Tumechukua Uber wasee wanne to Ngara. Only Sh125 each,” tweeted Gilbert Elan.

The Michuki rules state that all public service vehicles to be fitted with speed governors, have valid insurance, valid inspection certificate, valid road service license and avoid carrying excess passengers.

Passengers also need to comply to these rules by always wearing their safety belts

Some passengers were in full support of the Michuki rules saying that they were necessary in restoring sanity on the roads but also called for the same rules to be extended to motorbikes.

“I fully support the Michuki rules. Sanity must be restored. Better walk but save lives. The crackdown should include motorbikes which need licences too as well as helmet and reflector jackets, ” said Bonny K’ochieng