- NTSA and Police to begin alcohol checkpoints across the country this week.
- New law: Drunk drivers to face Ksh100,000 fine or 2 years in jail.
- NTSA given more power to inspect both public and private vehicles.
- New rules to regulate heavy commercial vehicles.
- CS Chirchir vows action after Kaplong road crash killed 15.
Transport CS Davis Chirchir has announced the return of roadside breathalyzer tests—popularly known as alcoblow—starting this week. This follows a deadly road crash in Bomet that claimed 15 lives.
The NTSA will work closely with the National Police Service to mount checkpoints countrywide in a renewed effort to crack down on drunk driving.
“We are enforcing the law immediately. Anyone caught driving above the legal alcohol limit will be fined up to Ksh100,000 or jailed for up to two years—or both,” said Chirchir.
Repeat offenders will also lose their licenses for at least one year.
New Laws Take Immediate Effect
The move comes after the government enacted the new Traffic (Drink-Driving) Rules, 2025, which were passed through changes to the Traffic Act, CAP 403. The previous rules had been nullified by a court, but Chirchir says the new laws are now fully re-gazetted and active.
He said the government is no longer taking chances with road safety.
“We did not have to get here. These lives could have been saved,” he added.
More Vehicle Inspections Coming
Apart from targeting drunk drivers, the Transport Ministry is introducing new regulations for the transport sector.
The NTSA will now oversee the inspection of both private and public vehicles, including school buses and driving school vehicles, through licensed private centers.
New Rules for Commercial Trucks
Commercial vehicles weighing more than 3,480 kg will be governed by the new Operation of Commercial Service Vehicles Rules, 2025. These rules are aimed at ensuring safer roads, proper loading, and professional operation.
A Promise After Pain
The announcement follows Chirchir’s visit to the Kaplong-Kapkatet crash site where 15 people lost their lives. Accompanied by other leaders, he offered condolences and promised firm action to prevent future tragedies.
“We cannot lose more lives because of carelessness. We will act,” said the CS.
