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The construction of the largest modern motor vehicle inspection centre in the country has kicked off at Makongeni area of Thika, Kiambu County.

The Sh600 million centre that is funded by the World Bank, through the national government, is expected to enhance road safety by ensuring that vehicles meet the required standards for operation.

Speaking during the groundbreaking ceremony at Makongeni village, Jacob Sisey, the Director for Corporate Support Services at the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) revealed that the facility will be the largest in the region.

The new centre is not only expected to reduce congestion at the current inspection centre but also increase the number of vehicles served in a day from around 200 to more than 1,000.

“The six-lane inspection unit will now be able to use simulators in testing drivers to ensure they are fit to be on the road,” said Sisey.

Thika Town MP Alice Ng’ang’a, who attended the groundbreaking ceremony, said the project will create jobs and grow the local economy. “Our people here will supply most of the materials while the youth will be employed,” she said.