Ntungamo Residents Demand Lasting Solutions To Deteriorating Government Roads
The story
NTUNGAMO — Residents and local leaders in Ntungamo District are expressing growing frustration over the deteriorating condition of roads managed by the central government, blaming delayed maintenance and what they describe as a slower response following the integration of the former Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) into the Ministry of Works and Transport.
They say although repairs are eventually undertaken after repeated complaints, the interventions are often short-lived, with potholes and damaged sections reappearing within weeks, prompting concerns about the quality and durability of maintenance works.
Details
Several major roads across the district, including both tarmac and murram roads, have deteriorated significantly, affecting transport, trade, agricultural activities and access to essential services.
Local leaders argue that the transition from UNRA to the Ministry of Works and Transport has coincided with slower maintenance schedules and reduced responsiveness to road users' concerns.
Ntungamo District Speaker Bernard Mukasa Ahabwe Mupenda believes the institutional changes may have contributed to the delays.
"Some of us say that because UNRA was merged into the Ministry of Works, maybe that's the reason why some roads are being delayed to be maintained," he said.
Among the worst affected roads has been the Ntungamo–Rukungiri highway, where motorists have endured numerous potholes for an extended period. Although maintenance works are currently underway, residents say repaired sections often deteriorate again within a short time, raising concerns about the quality of the works.
The situation worsens during the rainy season, when blocked or inadequate drainage systems cause water to accumulate on the road surface, concealing deep potholes and increasing the risk of accidents and vehicle damage.
Why it matters
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