Thika Plans to Create Database for bodaboda, Tuktuk Tracking.
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The shell of a 2TS matatu which was set ablaze by rowdy bodaboda operators after it was involved in an accident that killed the rider last week. |
Thika West plans to
set up a comprehensive single database containing information about all the
bodaboda, tuktuk and matatu operators within the sub-county as a means to
curb insecurity and fight lawlessness within the transport industry.
This resolution was
arrived at during a stakeholders meeting on Monday to discuss the way forward
within the transport industry following last week’s torching of a 2TS matatu by
rowdy bodabodas after one of them died after colliding with the matatu.
The meeting, which had
drawn together security agencies, operators of matatus, tuktuks, bodabodas,
taxis and cargo transporters, resolved that any conflict amongst them would from now henceforth, be resolved amicably.
While speaking at
the consultative forum, Thika West DCC Douglas Mutai reckoned that this database would serve as a ‘search engine’ to track all operators as well as assisting in
their own development programmes.
“We need to have
a database to enhance and streamline the operations of this sector. Identification
through technology of members of all these saccos will help in proper
coordination of operations and also in fighting insecurity,” said Mutai.
He challenged the
operators to embrace self-regulation as this would make it easier for them to
work in harmony and minimise conflicts amongst themselves and also reduce friction with the
authorities.
“As
transporters, we are not in competition with one another but rather we complement each
other. We need each other and must create harmony amongst ourselves. Therefore, in any case there emerges differences amonst yourselves, make sure you
resolve your issues amicably without taking the law into your hands,” he added.
(Related story: Bodaboda operators torch 2TS matatu that killed colleague in collision.)
The Chairman Mt Kenya Matatu Owners Association chairman Rufus Kariuki appealed to the DCC to arm traffic police officers as this would assist in cases where their lives or those of the citizens and their property were threatened as in the case of the ugly 2TS matatu torching.
He promised to constitute a conflict resolution committee that will be tasked with resolving all conflicts amongst stakeholders.
The Chairman Mt Kenya Matatu Owners Association chairman Rufus Kariuki appealed to the DCC to arm traffic police officers as this would assist in cases where their lives or those of the citizens and their property were threatened as in the case of the ugly 2TS matatu torching.
He promised to constitute a conflict resolution committee that will be tasked with resolving all conflicts amongst stakeholders.
Chairman Township
Bodaboda Association John Mugendi hailed the idea of a database saying that it
would go a long way in rooting out the bad elements within the sector.
“As bodaboda
operators, we have borne the blunt of being branded as the ‘black sheep’ in the
industry due to the numerous cases of insecurity being committed via motorbikes.
With proper identification and tracking of our bikes, we will be able to root
out criminals amongst us and regain the trust of our clients. This way, we can
be able to brand ourselves for more business even in advertising,” said
Mugendi.
The office of area
MP Eng. Patrick Wainaina through his Personal Assistant John Mwangi Njuguna to
organise driving courses for bodaboda operators and refresher courses for
drivers in the industry so as to minimise the number of operators working
without valid licences.
He also promised to
facilitate in the development of the database through funds from the National
Government Constituencies Development Fund (NG-CDF).
Kiambu regional
sub-county administrator Christopher Wanjau promised to work with the various
sectors to restore sanity in the transport industry especially in regards to
traffic congestion within the CBD.
Among those who addressed
the forum were the Thika District Business Association (TDBA) Chairman Alfred Wanyoike
who promised to always fight for the rights of all investors in the sub-county.
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