Residents of Kasese municipality’s central division are grappling with the consequences of heavy rainfall due to El Nino. The recent downpour has led to the destruction of a crucial bridge that linked Kihalimu and Kyaminyoku cells with neighboring areas. The washed-away bridge has caused significant disruptions, impacting businesses, transportation, and daily activities for the local residents.
Rosette Kyakimwa, a 30-year-old resident of Kihalimu cell, shared her concerns about the situation. With the bridge gone, commuters are now burdened with increased transportation costs due to having to use alternative routes to reach the town. She mentioned that her commute costs have risen from 2,000 shillings to over 3,000 shillings.
The loss of the bridge has affected a wide range of people, including schoolchildren and business owners who heavily relied on it. Rosette Kyakimwa called upon the government to intervene swiftly to aid the affected residents.
John Marahi, the head teacher of Vision Orphanage Nursery and Primary School in the vicinity, expressed his concerns regarding the safety of the learners on their way to and from school. He urged the government to find a prompt solution to prevent any accidents as children attempt to cross the hazardous area.
Kyaminyoku LC1 chairperson Ahamada Njima revealed that the community has taken it upon themselves to construct temporary bridges, which, while providing some relief, are not entirely safe for everyone and cannot accommodate vehicles or motorcycles. The residents are eagerly awaiting government assistance for a more permanent solution.
Kasese municipality deputy mayor Rabison Mupango explained that they have offered culverts to the residents to create temporary bridges and are placing their hopes on the ongoing USMID projects, which aim to provide a better bridge in the area. He expressed confidence in the contractor working on the Kyebambe road to address the issue effectively.
Herbert Bwambale, the secretary for production and social works for Kasese municipality, noted that the calamity struck at a time when they had not allocated funds for road maintenance in that area.
Municipality legislator Ferigo Kambale emphasized the importance of constructing improved roads and a comprehensive drainage plan within the municipality to ensure the safety of both infrastructure and residents. While significant investments have been made in road construction, efforts are also underway to enhance drainage systems for the region.
