MV Kalangala, a key vessel facilitating travel along the Lutoboka-Nakiwogo route on Lake Victoria, has temporarily suspended its daily operations to undergo mandatory annual maintenance. The decision, announced by the works and transport ministry and the Nation Oil Distributors (NODL), which operates the vessel, took effect on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
According to NODL spokesperson Hakim Bwanika, MV Kalangala will be docked at Port Alice in Nakiwogo for a month-long maintenance period. This routine maintenance is essential to ensure the vessel’s continued safe and efficient operation, adhering to maritime safety standards.
During the maintenance period, MV NODL Express will step in to serve passengers along the same route. However, it’s important to note that MV NODL Express is primarily designed for passenger transport, unlike MV Kalangala, which accommodates both passengers and cargo.
To accommodate travelers with heavy cargo, vehicles, and motorcycles, NODL advises utilizing the Masaka route and boarding MV Pearl and MV Ssese ferries to Kalangala district. This alternative route ensures the transportation of cargo while MV Kalangala undergoes maintenance.
Brian Mukweya, a regular user of MV Kalangala for transporting his motor vehicle, expressed concerns about the Masaka route’s costliness and the condition of the road from Kalangala to Bugoma, which is often riddled with potholes. Mukweya highlighted the increased expenses and time-consuming nature of the Masaka route compared to the direct service provided by MV Kalangala.
MV Kalangala plays a crucial role in connecting the islands of Lake Victoria to the mainland via Entebbe, serving as a vital lifeline for transportation and commerce in the region. Its temporary suspension underscores the importance of regular maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of maritime transport services.
