Residents and local leaders in Kyankwanzi district concerned over EACOP related road accidents

Residents and local leaders in Kyankwanzi District central Uganda are appealing to the East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) project and the relevant government authorities to urgently address safety concerns over a raised pipeline crossing on the Masodde–Ntwetwe–Nkooko road.

The road users say the section where the pipeline crosses the road was constructed above the road surface, creating a raised hump that has become a hazard for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.

They claim the structure has contributed to accidents and has made travelling along the road difficult, especially at night and during the rainy season.

They are now appealing to the authorities to redesign the crossing so that it is level with the road surface.

Gayaza Sub-county LC3 Chairperson Leosan Ssebalunzi said the road is an important transport corridor serving farmers, traders, schools and health facilities.

 He noted that while residents appreciate the development brought by the EACOP project, public safety should never be compromised.

He urged the project engineers to inspect the crossing and implement permanent safety measures before more accidents occur.

Kiryajobyo Village LC1 Chairperson Sadat Mugerwa also expressed concern, saying residents have repeatedly complained about the raised section.

He said community members want a lasting solution and appealed to the responsible authorities to respond promptly.

According to Mugerwa, improving the crossing will help protect lives and ease transport in the area.

Kyankwanzi District Chairperson Samuel Ssemugaba called upon EACOP and the responsible government agencies to treat the issue as a matter of urgency.

 He said development should improve the lives of communities without exposing them to unnecessary danger.

He urged engineers to work with district leaders to find a permanent solution that guarantees the safety of all road users.

The Masodde–Ntwetwe–Nkooko road is a vital route connecting several communities in Kyankwanzi District.

Residents remain hopeful that the concerns raised by their leaders will be acted upon quickly to prevent further accidents and ensure that the road is safe for everyone.

The East African Crude Oil Pipeline (EACOP) runs from Kabaale in Hoima District, Uganda, to Tanga in Tanzania at total pipeline length of 1,443 kilometres.

STORY COMPILED BY SSENKOOMI GERALD