Simpson M
The business community in Bugarika Trading Centre, Rutenga Town Council, Kanungu District, is living in fear due to deteriorating electric poles and a transformer that are on the brink of collapse.
The corroded state of the poles and transformer poses a significant threat to the safety of residents and passers-by. According to Edward Kahiigi, the chairperson of Bugarika Trading Centre, residents have been expressing concerns about the precarious condition of these structures for quite some time.
The electric poles supporting the transformer are unstable and at risk of falling at any moment, potentially causing fires and damage to nearby buildings. Given their location in the middle of the town near people’s homes and businesses, the situation is particularly alarming.
Edward Kahiigi has reported that despite multiple attempts to bring the matter to the attention of the UECDL (Uganda Electricity Distribution Company Limited) Board over the past month, there has been no response. He emphasized the urgency of the situation, fearing that strong winds could uproot the dilapidated poles, posing a severe threat to the lives and properties of the residents.
Richard Orishaaba, the chairperson of LC3 Rutenga Town Council, acknowledged the problem and stated that he has informed UECDL officials in the Muhanga branch several times about the imminent danger faced by the residents, especially those in the business community at Bugarika Trading Centre. He expressed concern that the situation exposes people’s lives to the risk of electrocution and urged the responsible authorities to take immediate action before any untoward incidents occur.
In response to inquiries, officials from the electricity board assured that steps are being taken to replace the damaged poles.
