The county government of Mombasa has suspended the registration of new Tuk Tuks. The new move was reached in a bid to ease congestion in different parts following public outcry.
County communication director Richard Chacha, who spoke on behalf of Governor Ali Hassan Joho, said that the move is painful to the investors in the sector but it will be helpful at the end of the day. “The measures are painful but in the long run it will be helpful,” said Mr Chacha.
The suspension is expected to take effect on January 8, 2018 as noted in the letter written by Governor Hassan Joho to the CEC transport and infrastructure, Taufiq Balala.
The county boss raised concern over the increased number of the three-wheeled vehicles, saying that they are causing congestion and pollution in different parts of the county since they were introduced.
Tuk tuk Owners and Drivers Association (Toda) has, however, criticized the county government, saying that the sector has been contributing immensely towards the economy of the region. The chairman of the association, Obedi Muruli said that increasing number of Tuk Tuks has been very beneficial to the residents.
“Every year the sector gets almost Sh5 million which is a boost for the county economy. Tuk tuk operators rely on them to earn a living and we urge the county to allow registration of new ones so that more people can get employment,” said Mr Muruli.