Since the introduction of the new traffic rules for matatu operators,a common trend shows that the commuters are footing the final bill. Initially fares increased by 500% to offset installation costs for safety gadgets,then finally settled at 30% of pre michuki fares. The reduction of carrying capacity led to a sharp increase in the number of matatus resulting to endemic traffic jams. Coupled by rising fuel prices,fares now stands at 100% pre michuki era. The relocation of psv's from the cbd has increased the commuters walking distance without commensurate reduction in fares. As clamour for phasing out 14 seat matatu in favour for 50 passenger bus,increases,allegedly to reduce traffic jams,no one has pointed out that a 50 passenger bus occupies the same space as three 14 passenger vans,and takes three times longer to fill up with passengers. This explains the jam at kencom stage. So,exactly who stands to benefit from these changes? It is clear that hawkers top this list. Local assemblers are next in line with expected increase in sales of new units. Importers of second hand vehicles will also cash in since there will be a ready market for used busses retailing at a lower price than the new buses. But traffic jams will continue to increase commensurate to the population,and fares will hike commensurate to inflation. The commuter will gain exactly nothing.

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