Relief for travellers as state to build toilets along major highways
The Ministry of Roads and Transport in Kenya will be taking steps to address the pressing need for toilets along the highways, following a court order mandating their provision.
In a notice dated September 5, the ministry initiated a crucial process to engage with the public regarding the draft Kenya Roads (Roadside Stations) Regulations, specifically focusing on the construction of these essential facilities.
Transport CS Kipchumba Murkomen, in an affidavit presented to the High Court, emphasized that this initiative aligns with a court order issued back in 2020.
This specific court order mandated the government to create a comprehensive policy for providing these facilities along the country’s road networks.
The case was filed in 2017 by Adrian Kamotho, who sought to ensure that travellers have access to toilets along the highways.
The court order, delivered by Justice Kossy Bor, stipulated that the government must formulate a policy for the provision of these facilities.
To facilitate this policy, the government is actively seeking partnerships with private sector players to construct toilets and other sanitation facilities along major highways.
This initiative aims to improve the travel experience for road users and address a long-standing issue that has inconvenienced travellers.
In line with the court’s directive, the Ministry of Roads has taken concrete steps, including the development of draft regulations titled “The Kenya Roads Regulations 2023.”
They have also initiated a series of public participation forums, from September 19 to September 27, to gather input from the public on the construction and placement of these vital facilities.
Moreover, the ministry has extended an invitation to Adrian Kamotho, the petitioner in the case, to provide his comments and perspectives on the proposed regulations.
Ultimately, this focus on the construction of toilets along highways represents a significant step forward in enhancing road infrastructure, ensuring traveler comfort, and promoting road safety and wellness for all who use Kenya’s highways.