Why Super Metro Buses Are Still on the Roads Despite the Ban
Despite a recent suspension by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA), Super Metro operations continue in Nairobi. A ground-level observation confirmed that the company’s minibuses are still actively transporting passengers throughout the city.
This persistence comes after NTSA’s public warning, advising Kenyans against using Super Metro vehicles. Traffic police were also instructed to impound any operating vehicles. However, a lack of formal, written communication from the Authority has been cited as the reason for the company’s continued service.
“The reason you see Super Metro vehicles still operating is because the suspension has been announced, but there should be a notice,” explained Kushian Muchiri, CEO of the Federation of Public Transport Sector. This lack of formal notice has created confusion and allowed the company to continue its daily routes.
Super Metro’s management argues that the suspension targeted only a few vehicles, not the entire fleet. “All the Super Metro vehicles should not have been put on suspension because you cannot suspend the whole company just because of one crew,” an official stated.
They perceive NTSA’s action as overly harsh and unfair, expressing concern about the potential job losses for numerous Kenyans. The company maintains that they have not received official written notification of the suspension.
On Thursday, March 20, NTSA declared the suspension of Super Metro, citing non-compliance with the Public Service Vehicle Regulations of 2014. “This is to notify the Public that the Authority has suspended Super Metro Limited’s operator licence until the Company fully complies with the Public Service Vehicles Regulations, 2014 and other set conditions,” the NTSA stated.
The NTSA further warned, “Members of the public are cautioned against boarding vehicles belonging to Super Metro Limited. The Traffic Department is required to impound vehicles belonging to the Company found operating contrary to the suspension.”
However, Super Metro representatives, in a press address, reiterated that they had not been formally served with any suspension notice from NTSA. This lack of official paperwork has allowed the vehicles to continue their daily routes, sparking debate about the validity and enforcement of the suspension.
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Why Super Metro Buses Are Still on the Roads Despite the Ban
