VANESSA A
The Chairperson of Rukungiri District Transporters Cooperative Society, Rtd Captain Joshua Kazooba, has cautioned passengers to be extra vigilant with their luggage during the ongoing back-to-school travel period.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with our reporter today, Rtd Captain Kazooba noted that transport fares to various destinations have slightly increased due to the high demand for travel, especially by students and parents.
He explained that transport from Rukungiri to Mbarara, which previously cost Shs20,000, has risen to Shs25,000, while fares to Kabale have also increased from Shs20,000 to Shs25,000. Other routes currently stand at Shs20,000 to Rwenshama, Shs20,000 to Ishaka, Shs50,000 to Kampala, and Shs15,000 to Ntungamo.
Rtd Captain Kazooba further urged passengers to closely monitor their luggage, emphasizing that conductors are not responsible for items placed on vehicles unless they fall off during transit. He noted that cases of lost luggage are common among women and children and advised passengers to record vehicle number plates and driver details as a precaution in case items go missing.
On road safety, he strongly warned passengers against accepting overloading, particularly on the driver’s seat, saying it puts lives at great risk and increases the chances of accidents. He also called upon the Officer in Charge of Traffic in Rukungiri District and his team to enforce traffic regulations by preventing overloaded vehicles from operating and ensuring drivers refrain from drinking and driving.
Rtd Captain Kazooba concluded by appealing to both drivers and passengers to prioritize safety for a smooth and secure travel season.
