Nairobi Commuters Raise Alarm Over Bedbug and Cockroach Infestation in Matatus
Nairobi residents are growing increasingly frustrated over the alarming rise of bedbugs and cockroaches in public transport vehicles, particularly matatus. The infestation has left many commuters uncomfortable, with some even reconsidering their choice of transport to avoid the creepy crawlers.
Commuters Speak Out
What was once an isolated issue in a few poorly maintained vehicles has now become a widespread problem. Passengers using matatus daily have reported spotting bedbugs crawling on seats, walls, and even fellow commuters. Cockroaches, too, have made themselves at home in some of these vehicles, scurrying across floors and hiding in dark corners.
“I was in a matatu heading to town when I noticed a bedbug crawling on the person in front of me. I immediately told him, but the conductor just flicked it off like it was normal,” said Njeri, a distressed commuter.
For others, the infestation has even made its way into their homes. “After taking a matatu from Thika to Nairobi, I got home and saw a cockroach pop out of my bag. I was shocked! It must have come from the matatu,” said another commuter, Ismail Abdi.
Calls for Immediate Action
Many passengers are now demanding urgent fumigation of public service vehicles to restore hygiene standards. Commuters argue that it is the responsibility of matatu owners and saccos to ensure their vehicles are regularly cleaned and fumigated to prevent infestations.
“There is a lot of public outcry. We urge matatu operators to take this matter seriously before it gets worse. Hygiene in public transport should be a priority,” Njeri added.
Some matatu drivers admit to the problem but argue that the responsibility lies with the vehicle owners. “We are driving vehicles that should not even be on the road. The seats are torn, dusty, and now infested with bedbugs and cockroaches. But at the end of the day, cleaning and maintenance are not our jobs,” one driver admitted.
Commuters Ditch Matatus for Private Transport
As frustration mounts, some Nairobians are opting for private ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt to avoid dealing with the pests. “I would rather pay extra for a taxi than risk carrying bedbugs or cockroaches home. Once you bring them into your house, it’s a nightmare to get rid of them,” said another commuter.
Beyond Matatus: A Citywide Hygiene Concern
The issue extends beyond matatus, with residents also complaining about pests in Nairobi’s hotels and eateries. The Nairobi County Government has pledged to crack down on hygiene violations, with Chief Officer for Environment Geoffrey Mosiria vowing to take action against businesses failing to meet cleanliness standards.
As the city grapples with this growing problem, it is evident that urgent measures must be taken to restore hygiene and protect commuters from these unwelcome passengers. Will matatu operators step up to tackle the issue, or will Nairobians be forced to abandon public transport altogether? Only time will tell.
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Nairobi Commuters Raise Alarm Over Bedbug and Cockroach Infestation in Matatus