Govt to bar all vehicles from Nairobi CBD every Wednesday and Saturday

Another major transport crisis is looming in Nairobi, after the government on Monday announced that beginning February 1 this year, no vehicle will be allowed in the Nairobi Central Business District on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

In a press briefing in Nairobi, Public Works Principal Secretary Paul Maringa said the two days have been designated as car-free days to allow the national government try out the much-hyped bus rapid transport (BRT) system.

Only individuals with bicycles, police vehicles and emergency cars will be allowed into the city centre on the two days.

Hawkers will, however, be allowed to take over the streets for the entire two days to sell their wares on the numerous parking lots in the city centre.

According to the PS, matatu operators will drop and pick passengers at the designated termini, while private car owners have been advised to leave their vehicles at home and use public transport on the two days.

The government says 64 high-capacity buses will be imported from South Africa for the BRT pilot programme.

The pilot phase will cover these four roads; Moi Avenue, Harambee Avenue, City Halll Way and Agha Khan Walk. There will, however, be designated parking spots at Uhuru Park and Railways during the two car free days.

The BRT system is one of the major moves the government is hoping will address the traffic menace in Nairobi by having a complete ban of cars in the CBD.