The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) Director General George Njao has called for vigilance on roads following a fatal crash that occurred on the Nakuru-Eldoret highway.

In the early hours of Tuesday morning at approximately 2:45 am, tragedy struck as a matatu owned by Northways Services Sacco Ltd collided with a foreign bus from Classic Kings of Congo at the Twin Bridge Area.

Regrettably, the incident claimed the lives of 15 passengers, while others are currently undergoing treatment in hospitals.

Njao expressed the NTSA's condolences to the grieving families and conveyed well wishes for the speedy recovery of the injured in a press statement released on Tuesday.

"The Authority take this opportunity to condole with the families of the bereaved and wish quick recovery to those injured," the statement read.

According to Njao, preliminary analysis of the crash points to lane indiscipline and dangerous overtaking by the bus driver, resulting in a head-on collision with the Northways Sacco matatu.

The bus driver is presently at large, and extensive efforts are underway to bring the individual to justice.

Njao disclosed that a probe has been initiated to comprehensively understand the circumstances surrounding the crash, guiding future legal proceedings and recommendations.

Against the backdrop of this tragic event, Njao underscored the importance of heightened caution on the roads, particularly with students returning to school.

"We urge all motorists to be extra cautious while on the road, especially now, as children go back to school. The ongoing multi-agency operation will be intensified, and necessary actions will be taken against those flouting traffic rules," stated the Director General.

The NTSA's call for vigilance serves not only as a reaction to the recent accident but as a proactive measure to avert future incidents and instill a culture of compliance with traffic regulations.

As the investigation unfolds, the NTSA remains committed to ensuring accountability and reinforcing the significance of responsible driving.

This unfortunate occurrence underscores the crucial role of regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies in upholding road safety.

The NTSA's appeal for cautious driving represents a significant step towards cultivating a secure environment on the nation's highways, with the aim of preventing further loss of lives in the future.