Operators of Rhinggo electric tricycles in Mombasa have petitioned the County Assembly to address critical issues affecting their operations. They report delays in obtaining charged batteries and repairs, which limit their working hours and income.
The electric tricycles serve residents in Likoni and Mombasa Island, but challenges such as insufficient battery-swapping stations, shortage of charged batteries, and expensive spare parts have disrupted services. Operators also highlighted a lack of repair tools and inadequate after-sales support.
The petition was forwarded to the Transport and Infrastructure Committee for review. The operators urge the county to increase battery-swapping points, ensure a steady supply of charged batteries, and reduce battery replacement times to under 15 minutes.
Sanitation Concerns Prompt Assembly Motion
Separately, the assembly approved a motion spearheaded by Shanzu Ward MCA Allen Katana to strengthen sanitation and solid waste management across Mombasa County. Katana expressed concerns over persistent illegal dumping, blocked drains, overflowing sewers, and poor garbage collection.
The motion calls for a comprehensive, cost-effective plan addressing sewerage and sanitation, backed by public education on proper waste disposal. It also advocates for stricter enforcement against illegal dumping and promotes the use of biodigesters and decentralized sanitation systems in areas lacking sewer connections.
These developments underscore the pressure on the county government to enhance both sustainable public transport infrastructure and sanitation services, vital for residents' health and the preservation of Mombasa's environment and tourism sector.