Death Toll Rises to 13 in River Yala Bridge Accident, Governor Barasa Calls for Immediate Action

Following a deadly accident on the Kisumu-Kakamega highway that has claimed 13 lives, Kakamega County Governor Fernandes Barasa is urging the Ministry of Transport to implement stricter road safety measures in response to a rising number of traffic accidents. 

Speaking at Kakamega Level 5 Hospital after visiting survivors of the crash, Governor Barasa highlighted preliminary findings from the traffic department, which revealed that the tanker involved in the accident was unroadworthy.

"According to the initial report I received from the traffic police, a truck traveling from Kisumu to Kakamega lost control and crashed into other vehicles. I am also informed that this truck had worn-out tires, making it essentially unroadworthy," Barasa said.

The tanker reportedly collided with two passenger vans that were allegedly speeding, underscoring what the governor described as "a reckless disregard for traffic rules."

Barasa called for immediate action, including the re-establishment of checkpoints along major routes to monitor vehicle compliance and prevent further incidents.

"We urge the Ministry of Transport to prioritize road safety by reintroducing speed limiters and restoring roadblocks that were removed. Regular inspections are also necessary to ensure that vehicles on the road are roadworthy," he stated.

The governor also emphasized the importance of driver responsibility, especially with increased traffic expected during the holiday season.

"To save lives, drivers must exercise caution and follow traffic laws. We cannot afford to lose more lives in preventable road accidents," he added.

Later, Governor Barasa visited accident victims at Iguhu Level 4 Hospital, offering them his best wishes for a quick recovery.