MUGABE R
The Resident District Commissioner (RDC) for Rukungiri District, Buroni Kikanshemeza, has suspended sand mining activities along Rushaya Bridge in Bwambara Sub County, citing concerns over environmental protection and the safety of the bridge.
Rushaya Bridge lies along the Bwambara main road, which connects to the Kasese District tarmac road through Queen Elizabeth National Park. The bridge crosses a wide river that experiences heavy flooding during the rainy seasons. Due to the sandy nature of the surrounding ground, the river often bursts its banks, posing a serious threat to the stability of the bridge.
The RDC ordered the immediate cessation of sand mining near the bridge, emphasizing that the activity weakens the riverbanks and exposes the bridge to possible destruction. He noted that protecting critical infrastructure and preserving the environment must take priority.
Residents of the area have expressed concern over the increasing depth of the river around the bridge, especially during the rainy months of October, November, April, and May. Although the bridge has withstood strong floods in the past, locals say continuous sand mining has made the riverbed dangerously deep and compromised the bridge’s safety. Some residents also reported noticeable shaking of the bridge as vehicles cross, raising fears of structural damage.
Sand dealers acknowledged that sand mining has been a key source of income for many families in the area, with fees charged depending on the size of the lorries. However, community members also pointed out the negative social impacts of the activity, including increased school dropouts and rising crime, particularly during school holidays.
The Gomborora Chief of Bwambara Sub County welcomed the suspension, stressing that the importance of the bridge to the community outweighs the small revenue generated from sand mining. He described the bridge as a vital link for transport, trade, and access to essential services.
Sand miners affected by the suspension said they were saddened by the decision due to the loss of income but acknowledged the directive, expressing concern about the lack of alternative livelihood options.
Authorities have called for collaboration between the community and local leaders to explore sustainable income-generating activities that do not threaten critical infrastructure or the environment.
