It’s day five since River Kafu along the Hoima-Kampala road burst its banks flooding about 2 kilometres of the road in Katerega making it hard for either passengers or vehicles to cross.
Until now the flooded area is guarded by police on either side of Kyankwanzi and Hoima to ensure that people don’t risk crossing the speedy, running waters.
According to the Albertine region police spokesperson Alan Hakiza,”As police we are ensuring no one crosses to put their lives at risk, we want to appreciate the communities, leaders are so far cooperating with us but we are also in contact with line ministry and departments who confirm that once the waters reduce they will be able to measure the extent of damage and advise the road users accordingly.”
UNRA and police continues to advise travellers to use the alternative routes through Buhimba, Nalweyo, Gayaza Kakumiro then Mubende to Kampala or Hoima Masindi Luweero to Kampala.
This, however, has resulted in more transport costs, with a hike of five thousand shillings. Presently it costs shillings 25,000 to travel from Hoima to Kampala, up from shs. 20,000.
The Hoima Drivers Association chairman Humphrey Mugisa defends the price hike saying it helps them meet added fuel costs.
“We had meetings when Kafu flooded and the road was closed, some suggested the use of of Buhimba, Nalweyo Kakaumiro route Mubende route; others Masindi Luweero Kampala route but we agreed on either sides we add only five thousand but drivers prefer Masindi route which is slightly nearer compared to Mubende side whose advantage is it never has too much traffic jam as you get to the city,” Mugisa said.