Deteriorating Ntungamo–Rukungiri Road Sparks Safety and Economic Concerns

MICHAEL N

Road users along the Ntungamo–Rukungiri highway have raised serious concerns over its deteriorating condition, calling on authorities to take urgent action to avert further accidents and economic losses.

Motorists and residents say the road has developed numerous potholes, particularly in areas such as Kyagara, Rutunguru, Karejera, and Nyamunuka, making it increasingly dangerous for users. The situation has not only heightened the risk of road accidents but also disrupted transport and business operations.

Taxi operators who frequently ply the route report that the poor state of the road has significantly increased their vehicle maintenance costs, eating into their daily earnings. Many say frequent visits to garages have become unavoidable due to damage caused by the potholes.

Other road users have also criticized the lack of consistent maintenance, noting that during rainy seasons, soil and mud are washed onto the road, narrowing it further and worsening driving conditions. Some recalled that minor repairs were carried out during the recent campaign period, but these were short-lived and poorly executed, leaving the road in an even worse state.

Boda boda riders, especially those operating from stages like Nyamunuka, say the combination of a narrow road and widespread potholes has led to a rise in accidents, putting lives at constant risk.

Residents and road users are now appealing to the Ministry of Works and Transport, local leaders, and national authorities to intervene and ensure the road is rehabilitated. They emphasize the importance of the Ntungamo–Rukungiri road as a key transport link that connects several districts, including Kanungu, Mitooma, and Bushenyi, facilitating the movement of agricultural produce, construction materials, and other essential goods.

Efforts to obtain a direct comment from the Ministry of Works and Transport were unsuccessful. However, in a recent update shared on social media, the ministry indicated that maintenance teams were being mobilized to begin work on the most affected sections of the road.

Constructed in the early 2000s, the Ntungamo–Rukungiri road has since fallen into a state of disrepair, with road users warning that unless urgent action is taken, more lives could be lost and economic activities further affected.