Health CEC terms bodaboda accidents as alarming

Bomet County Executive Member for Health Dr. Joseph Sitonik has decried the high health care costs for bodaboda accident victims saying the medical cover is second only to cancer.
Dr. Sitonik said Thursday that his department has recorded alarming numbers of accidents involving motorcycle riders saying the trend needed immediate intervention.
He said many young people have been lured into the public transport business due to lack of alternative jobs.
“When you get to any hospital, you will realize the gravity of the situation. Apart from the cost of treatment, there is the indirect cost for one does not work during the time of hospitalization,” he said.
“The Government is very keen on the safety of the riders. That’s why you are required to put on protective helmets all the time.”
He said though there is a genuine concern over the comfort of the helmets especially for women with long hair and wigs, the official insisted on road safety being given priority number one.
Dr. Sitonik said the County Government of Bomet had organized a workshop where all riders will be sensitized on the need for formal training on driving and road safety precautions.
“When we call on you to come, please do due diligence to ensure that you do so as this is important not only for you but also for your passengers,” he said.
He asked the riders to make sure they have all the requirements prioritized by the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to avoid collision with traffic police.
By Kipngeno Korir