The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has arrested 35 pedestrians in Nairobi for failing to use designated footbridges while crossing roads. The arrests occurred during an enforcement operation at the Mutindwa footbridge near Buruburu Interchange.
NTSA officials targeted individuals crossing the road directly, a practice that disrupts traffic flow and increases the risk of accidents. The authority emphasized that such violations contribute to the high rate of pedestrian fatalities on Kenyan roads.
Enforcement and Legal Action
- The 35 arrested pedestrians will be arraigned in court to face charges related to obstructing traffic and ignoring road safety rules.
- This follows a recent operation where 22 pedestrians were similarly arraigned for crossing roads instead of using the Allsops footbridge.
- The joint enforcement efforts involve NTSA, the National Police Service, and Nairobi City County officials.
Road Safety Concerns
NTSA highlighted that pedestrians account for 38 percent of all road traffic fatalities recorded up to June 30, 2026. The crackdown aims to curb this alarming trend by promoting safer road use and ensuring compliance with traffic laws.
Pedestrians caught crossing beneath footbridges face fines ranging from Sh500 to Sh5,000, and may also face jail terms.
Ongoing Campaigns
The authority plans to continue enforcement alongside public education campaigns encouraging the use of footbridges and designated crossing points. NTSA calls on all stakeholders to collaborate in reducing pedestrian deaths and improving road safety standards nationwide.
