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NTSA Suspends Super Metro’s License Over Safety and Compliance Violations
The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has taken a decisive step by suspending Super Metro Limited’s operating license due to multiple violations of Public Service Vehicle (PSV) regulations. The suspension, which took effect immediately upon announcement on Thursday, aims to enforce road safety standards and ensure regulatory compliance.
Why NTSA Suspended Super Metro’s License
In its official statement, NTSA revealed that an extensive audit of the company’s operations exposed severe non-compliance issues. These include lapses in vehicle inspections, expired licenses, violations of speed limits, unqualified drivers, and failure to adhere to labor laws.
Key Findings from NTSA’s Investigation
- Vehicle Inspection and Licensing Failures: 15 out of Super Metro’s 523 vehicles had expired inspection certificates, while eight vehicles were operating with expired Road Service Licenses.
- Speed Limiter Violations: 294 vehicles were flagged for infractions such as expired speed limiter certificates, lack of proper speed limiter records, and frequent cases of exceeding the 80 km/h legal limit.
- Over-Speeding Concerns: 109 Super Metro vehicles were found operating beyond the speed limit, posing a high risk to passenger safety.
- Unqualified Drivers: NTSA discovered that some drivers lacked the required professional qualifications, creating a significant road safety hazard.
- Driver License Retest Failures: 64 Super Metro drivers had their licenses suspended after failing a mandatory retest.
- Labor Law Violations: Super Metro failed to comply with Section 5(1)(e) of the PSV Regulations, which mandates employment contracts, statutory deductions, and workplace safety provisions for drivers.
Conditions for License Reinstatement
To regain its operating license, Super Metro must address all flagged compliance issues, including:
- Ensuring all 294 vehicles meet inspection and speed limiter requirements.
- Re-testing 42 drivers cited for multiple speed violations and immediately terminating unqualified drivers.
- Providing proof of compliance with labor laws, including payroll records and formal employee contracts.
- Conducting a comprehensive road safety sensitization program for all drivers, under NTSA supervision. The company must submit session minutes, photos, an attendance register, and a final report to NTSA.
Public Advisory and Enforcement Measures
As part of the enforcement action, NTSA has cautioned the public against using Super Metro vehicles until compliance is achieved. Additionally, the Traffic Department has been directed to impound any Super Metro vehicles found operating in defiance of the suspension.
“Members of the public are cautioned against boarding Super Metro Limited vehicles,” the NTSA warned in its statement.
Super Metro, one of Nairobi’s most popular PSV operators, now faces immense pressure to rectify its shortcomings or risk permanent exclusion from the city’s transport sector. The coming weeks will determine whether the company can successfully implement the necessary reforms and regain public trust.
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NTSA Suspends Super Metro’s License Over Safety and Compliance Violations