Nairobi county government has given matatu operators 10 days to get out of the Central Business District (CBD) in the latest move aimed at decongesting the city.

According to transport executive Mohamed Dagane, city hall has made provided alternative terminus for matatus outside CBD.

Dagane said that only the recently launched NYS buses will be allowed to access the CBD, so commuters have the option of using the buses or walking to the city center.

Under the new directive to keep Public Service Vehicles (PSVs) out of the city center, Matatus plying Langata Road, Ngong Road and Mombasa Road will end their inbound journey at the Railways Bus Station while those from Jogoo Road will stop at Muthurwa and Hakati Bus Stations.

Those coming from Wayaiki Way will use the Westlands stage and commuters from Thika Road, Limuru Road and Kiambu Road will be dropped off at Murang’a Road A and B, Ngara and Desai Road service lane termini.

BUS RAPID TRANSIT (DESIGNATED LANES FOR MATATUS)

On Thursday, the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) kicked off the process of earmarking the new designated lanes for the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT).

The lanes will be strictly reserved for the commuter busses that will carry at least 80 passengers, emergency vehicles and VVIP escorts.

Early this week Public Service and Youth Cabinet Secretary Margaret Kobia announced plans to introduce 50 more National Youth Service (NYS) commuter buses in the city, saying the decision to increase the buses from the recently unveiled fleet of 24, is formed by the need to reduce fares and ease traffic congestion in the city.

Matatu operators have however vowed to resist the plans to kick them out of CBD and the introduction of the NYS buses altogether, saying they will be kicked out of business.

Matatu Owners Association (MOA) chairman Simon Kimutai yesterday said the government has not consulted all stakeholders.

“You don’t just wake up and declare matatus are going to go out of town. Where are we going to? There must be an agreement with all stakeholders as we seek solutions,” said Kimutai.