The National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) has suspended Super Metro Limited’s operator license due to multiple safety and compliance violations.
According to NTSA, the suspension will remain in effect until the company fully adheres to the 2014 Public Service Vehicles Regulations and other mandatory requirements, a decision which aims to enhance passenger safety and protect other road users.
Audit exposes major violations
A recent audit of Super Metro’s operations uncovered serious compliance failures. Out of 523 vehicles, authorities found that:
- 15 had expired inspection certificates.
- 8 were operating with expired Road Service Licenses (RSLs).
- 5 had expired speed limiter certificates.
- 88 were not transmitting speed data.
- 171 lacked speed limiter records.
- 7 had no vendor details for their speed limiters.
- 109 were operating beyond the speed limit of 80 Kph.
Further concerns emerged regarding driver qualifications. NTSA determined that some drivers failed to meet the required standards under the Traffic (Driving Schools, Driving Instructors, and Driving Licenses) Rules, 2020.
Additionally, the company violated labor laws by failing to provide proper employment contracts, statutory deductions, and workplace safety measures for its staff.
Strict conditions for license reinstatement
NTSA has outlined several conditions that Super Metro must fulfill before its license can be reinstated.
- All 294 vehicles flagged for violations must undergo compliance checks with speed limiter vendors.
- These vehicles must also pass inspections at the Likoni Motor Vehicle Inspection Centre.
- 42 drivers with violations must retake their driving tests at the Likoni Driver Test Centre.
Previously, 64 drivers failed a retest on March 10, 2025, leading to the suspension of their licenses. As a result, NTSA has directed the company to immediately disengage all unqualified drivers.
Moreover, Super Metro must submit signed employment contracts for all staff, along with six months’ worth of payroll records, to demonstrate compliance with labor laws.
To improve road safety, the company is also required to conduct a mandatory safety sensitization session for all drivers.
NTSA officers will supervise the process and review reports, photos, and attendance records before approving the company’s return to operations.
A final compliance audit will determine whether Super Metro can resume its services.
Public advised against using super metro vehicles
In light of these violations, NTSA has issued a public warning, advising passengers not to board any Super Metro vehicles.
Additionally, the Traffic Department has been instructed to impound any vehicles found operating in defiance of the suspension order.
With the transport sector closely monitoring the situation, many are eager to see how quickly Super Metro will act to meet NTSA’s demands and restore its operations.
