Arise Media 
BY CORRESPONDENT
Motorists in Embu town forcibly entered the recently upgraded bus stage, leaving authorities grappling with regulatory violations.
The matatu operators plying Embu-Runyenjes, Embu-Kianjokoma, Embu-Kevote, and Embu-Chuka routes among other destinations, forcefully breached access restrictions flouting county regulations on stage usage.
The unauthorized entries have disrupted the intended traffic management system and triggered a wave of concern regarding the adequacy of enforcement measures.
The matatus started operating on the stage hours after launching a riot early in the morning demanding immediate reopening of the stage.
“The bus stage was closed down a few months ago for renovation. However, it has not been reopened for usage, prompting the forceful act,” said Mary Njeru, a trader.
Incomplete exit gate caused the prolonged closure of the stage.
Businesses in the town came to a standstill for several hours as the demonstrators communicated their grievances.
“The businesses near the bus stage were temporarily closed out of potential property damage fears,” she added.
According to the protestors, delays in reopening of the stage had adverse effects on their businesses.
Ibrahim Swaleh, the area MCA said during the transformative bus stage upgrade, traders endured many struggles.
“These people have been patient since their businesses were interrupted to pave way for the upgrade. I have driven the first matatu inside this stage and from today, these matatus will be operating from here,” Swaleh said.
A wave of jubilation swept through the ranks of matatu operators as the newly upgraded stage proved to be a boon for their businesses.
Charles Mugendi, a driver, said unlike when they operated from Kamuketha temporary stage, they have recorded a profit surge.
“When we operated at the Kamuketha stage, we took too long to fill one matatu because many customers opted to use other means. The temporary stage was far from the market area, which is our biggest source of customers,” he said.
Kenya National Chambers of Commerce and Industries (KNCCI) Embu chairman, John Mugo Mate said for six months, they operated in a different place, matatu dealers among other traders within the stage, recorded a big loss.
Mate urged the County Government to consider giving matatu dealers and traders operating near the bus stage an exclusive offer following the loss.
“We propose the consideration of an exclusive business license offer for enterprises operating within this area come next year since they have recorded a big loss during the stage upgrade period,” he said.
Want to send us a story? Submit via
news@arisemediagroup.co.ke or call 0750456085
Book Advert-use above contacts
674
