Transport ministry commences inspection of Y.Y Coach buses following repeated fatal accidents
The suspension was enacted after the two recent incidents raised serious concerns about the safety and maintenance of Y.Y Coach Company vehicles. The ministry is taking a zero-tolerance approach to ensure the well-being of passengers and other road users.
Following two serious road crashes involving Y.Y Coach Company buses earlier this month, the Ministry of Transport and Works has commenced a thorough inspection of the company’s entire bus fleet at the Namanve Vehicle Inspection Facility.
The inspection, now entering its second day, aims to ensure all buses meet stringent safety and mechanical standards before the company’s 15-day suspension is lifted.
The suspension was enacted after the two recent incidents raised serious concerns about the safety and maintenance of Y.Y Coach Company vehicles. The ministry is taking a zero-tolerance approach to ensure the well-being of passengers and other road users.
In addition to the physical inspection of the buses, Y.Y Coach Company has been instructed to provide a complete list of its drivers, along with their appointment letters and copies of driver badges, for verification.
This mandate, issued by the State Minister for Transport, Fred Byamukama, must be fulfilled within the 15-day suspension period and before any operations resume on Ugandan highways.
The ministry stresses that this detailed driver verification process is crucial for identifying any potential issues related to driver qualifications, training, and adherence to road safety regulations.
“This directive is part of our ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and protect all road users,” Minister Byamukama stated, emphasizing the ministry’s commitment to holding transportation companies accountable for maintaining safe and reliable vehicles and employing qualified and responsible drivers.
Meanwhile, the Ministry is also cracking down on reckless driving and misuse of government vehicles. All drivers of vehicles belonging to Government Ministries, Departments, and Agencies have been directed to drive responsibly and strictly adhere to the new road safety laws.
“Ministry vehicles are now under the spotlight,” a ministry spokesperson announced. “Reckless driving, misuse, and breaking traffic rules will no longer be tolerated. These actions not only endanger lives but also tarnish the reputation of government services.”
The Ministry is implementing the EPS Auto System which will automatically track and penalize offenders. This system is expected to provide real-time monitoring of government vehicle activity, ensuring accountability and promoting safer driving practices.
The activation of the EPS Auto System signals a significant shift towards stricter enforcement of road safety regulations within the government sector.
The Ministry of Transport and Works is determined to ensure that all road users, whether using public transportation or driving government vehicles, are safe on Ugandan roads.
These measures reflect a broader commitment to prioritizing road safety and holding those who violate traffic laws accountable.
