Steven Ariong, Karamoja – Flash floods caused by torrential rains have again cut off roads in Karamoja, making it difficult for motorists to enter and leave the region.
Over the past week, the region has experienced heavy downpours that have washed away bridges due to flash floods.
By Sunday evening, hundreds of travelers, including women and children returning to their workplaces after spending the weekend in Moroto Municipality, were stranded for a second night at the seasonal Lopei Bridge that connects Moroto, Napak, Kotido, and Abim districts. Rains washed away parts of the road leading to the bridge.
Mr. Pius Owili, a taxi driver operating on the Moroto-Kotido route via Napak district, had no choice but to turn back to Kotido after encountering water covering the entire road.
“I couldn’t risk myself and the lives of other passengers crossing that water. Anything could happen, and we could die,” he said.
This road is one of those President Museveni promised to tarmac to boost tourism in Karamoja. It stretches up to Kidepo National Game Park in Kaabong district (not Karenga).
Meanwhile, other roads in Amudat district within the Karamoja region have also been washed away, making it difficult for the community, especially expectant mothers, to access medical services.
The most affected roads include those connecting Amudat to Cheptapoyo and Amudat to Karita sub-county.
