Two survive as Mbaya-Runaku stream sweeps away new bridge

26 November 2024, 9:22 pm

By Kato Joseph

Two people narrowly escaped death after almost drowning in the waters that swept away the Mbaya-Runaku Bridge, which was recently constructed by the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) Hoima branch.

The victims have been identified as Yovensi Bigirimana, 22, a Boda Boda rider from Mukasansa village in Mugarama subcounty, and his passenger, whose details were not available at press time.

In April this year, the Mbaya-Runaku stream burst its banks, injuring several people, destroying crops, and sweeping away domestic animals. This disaster also damaged the Kibaale-Kyebando-Kasimbi-Pachwa trunk road.

Following the incident, UNRA constructed a bridge using culverts and compacted marrum at the stream. However, the bridge was washed away last night, paralysing movement and posing a significant risk to lives.

It is reported that the survivors, traveling on a motorcycle (Registration No. UEY 580X) at around 4 a.m., were heading to Hoima city, unaware that the Mbaya-Runaku Bridge had been washed away earlier that night.

The pair accidentally plunged into the waters while attempting to cross but survived by clinging to papyrus reeds.

Speaking to reporters, frustrated residents criticised UNRA for what they described as shoddy construction work. They called for urgent action to rehabilitate the stream and provide a long-lasting solution.

Nicolas Murungi, the head teacher of Kisalizi Seed Secondary School, expressed concern that many students from areas such as Kyebando, Kasimbi, and Mukasansa cannot travel to school to sit their end-of-year exams.

Similarly, Moses Nsamba, the head teacher of Kisalizi Primary School, revealed that over 200 pupils from Kyebando village and Kasimbi are also unable to attend classes as the exams approach.

Peter Kyamanywa, the district councilor representing Kyebando subcounty, condemned the poor construction work by UNRA.

Godfrey Muhonge Kasanga, the LC5 Chairperson of Kibaale district, confirmed that stakeholders had been notified and that the Ministry of Works has been alerted to respond swiftly.