The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has intensified efforts to improve pedestrian safety through an awareness intervention at Mutindwa Footbridge, targeting road users who cross busy roads outside designated crossing points.
The exercise is aimed at encouraging pedestrians to use the footbridge whenever they need to cross the road, while highlighting the dangers associated with crossing at undesignated sections.
During the intervention, NTSA is engaging pedestrians on the importance of observing road safety rules and making responsible decisions when navigating busy roads.
The authority has urged members of the public to avoid taking shortcuts across the road, instead using the footbridge provided for their safety.
Pedestrians are among the most vulnerable road users because they have little physical protection when involved in collisions with vehicles. Crossing at unauthorised points can expose them to approaching motorists, particularly where drivers may not expect people to enter the road.
The use of designated crossing facilities is therefore an important part of preventing crashes and protecting lives.
At Mutindwa, the footbridge provides pedestrians with an alternative to walking directly across the road, reducing the need to interact with moving traffic while crossing.
NTSA says the ongoing intervention seeks to promote responsible pedestrian behaviour, increase public awareness and reduce road crashes involving pedestrians.
The authority is also encouraging pedestrians to take personal responsibility for their safety by following available road infrastructure and avoiding risky decisions, even when they are in a hurry.
The campaign comes amid continued calls for greater discipline among all road users, including motorists, passengers, cyclists and pedestrians.
While drivers have a responsibility to observe speed limits, remain alert and give pedestrians appropriate consideration, pedestrians are equally expected to use designated crossing points and remain attentive when navigating roads.
Authorities have repeatedly emphasised that road safety requires cooperation among all road users, with every individual playing a role in preventing avoidable accidents.
The Mutindwa exercise forms part of NTSA's wider road safety awareness efforts under the messages #MsimuBilaAjali, #FikaSalama and #UsalamaBarabarani, which encourage safer travel and responsible conduct on Kenyan roads.
Pedestrians using the Mutindwa route have been urged to make the footbridge their preferred crossing point and discourage others from crossing through unsafe sections.
