Nakuru County Government has called on matatu operators to be patient as the county tries to come up with a lasting solution to the traffic congestion in Nakuru town.
Speaking on Thursday at the county headquarters during a meeting with matatu operator’s leaders, CeC in charge of Land, Housing and Planning Ms Rachael Maina said congestion is a new phenomenon in Nakuru adding a solution has to be found through planning the town.
“We are holding public forums with all the stakeholders in planning which includes the matatu owners and operators to come up with a 20 year plan for this town. Nakuru town has only one entry point and exit which contributes a lot to traffic and congestion that affects the running of the town’s economy,” she noted.
The matatu owners’ leaders had gone to seek audience with the county officials following the eviction of matatus from several Sacco’s that were still operating from the CBD. They included Precious Sacco, Njoro operators Sacco, Njoro line Sacco, Mau- Narok Sacco, Naloki Sacco, Shabab Sacco, prestige shuttle and Northway Sacco.
Through their chairman Mr Stephen Muli, they had complained of not being consulted before the eviction.
However, the CeC for roads Mr Mina Kairu said that the county has taken full responsibility of the eviction. He said the matter should not be tribalised or politicised in any manner adding that consultative meetings are being held to find an amicable solution.
He also distanced the county government from a letter that was showing minutes of a meeting held on Tuesday at the deputy governor's office affirming the eviction.
“The county has an MoU with Matatu operators on consulting which we still value and which we will use for this matter. Matatu operators should also be aware and be careful of intruders who have started to propagate propaganda and incite people against any positive plan the county has for the transport industry,” he said.