The Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA) has initiated a crackdown to apprehend vehicles parking in undesignated areas along highways across the country.
In a statement released on Tuesday evening, the authority highlighted the need to address motorists who obstruct other road users by parking in inappropriate locations, stating that such behavior compromises road safety.
“In an effort to enhance road safety, the Authority has established a unit tasked with clearing obstructions on the national road network, including the removal of vehicles that have the potential to compromise the safety of road users. The Authority will strive to install signs indicating safe parking areas on the highways,” directed KeNHA.
“Parking or obstruction by motor vehicles is prohibited under Section 53 of the Traffic Act, Cap. 403, and as such, such vehicles shall face prosecution when impounded.”
According to the Traffic Act, obstructing other road users carries a fine of Ksh50,000 or a one-year jail term for a first-time conviction. Repeat offenders face a fine of up to Ksh70,000 or imprisonment for a maximum of eighteen months.
The court may also revoke the driving license or provisional driving license of the offender and disqualify them from holding or obtaining a driving license for two years from the date of conviction.
The Act stipulates that in the event of a breakdown, the vehicle must be removed from the road promptly or placed near the edge of the road. Additionally, at night, the vehicle must display a light to signal other road users.
“No vehicle shall be allowed to remain in any position on any road that obstructs or is likely to obstruct or cause inconvenience or danger to other traffic using the road. Every vehicle on a road, when not in motion, shall be drawn up as close to the side of the road as possible,” as outlined in the Act.
