By Insight Post Uganda
Kampala-Uganda
The relentless onslaught of heavy rains wreaking havoc across the country has forced the Ugandan government to take a decisive step by freezing district road funds.
This strategic move aims to mitigate the extensive damage inflicted on road and bridge infrastructure due to widespread flooding, landslides, and erosion.
Works Minister Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala highlighted the severity of the situation, emphasizing the pressing need to safeguard the nation’s infrastructure against the escalating threats posed by climate change.
“Climate change poses a growing threat to our communities, and we are dedicated to implementing measures that will safeguard our infrastructure from future challenges,” stated Gen. Katumba.
The ongoing rains have led to substantial damage, prompting the government to urge districts not to utilise the recently disbursed sh1b allocations per district designated for road infrastructure during this turbulent rainy period.
The minister expressed concerns about potential wastage and emphasized the government’s commitment to exploring short, medium, and long-term strategies to enhance infrastructure resilience against extreme weather events.
He told the media in Kampala about the widespread impact of the rains on critical transportation networks, leading to deterioration and, in some cases, complete failure. He assured the public that comprehensive restoration efforts would be initiated once the rains subside.
“While the government is fully committed to addressing this pressing issue and ensuring connectivity and well-being of our citizens, with the persistent rains, immediate response by fixing damaged sections is not technically viable.
However, once the rains subside, we will immediately embark on the restoration works to restore smooth connectivity,” Katumba affirmed.
In the interim, the public is advised to exercise caution when using damaged sections of roads and approaching flooded areas. Minister Katumba stressed the importance of avoiding unnecessary risks in areas where water levels have risen.
“We understand the inconvenience this may cause to the public, and we appreciate your patience and cooperation during this challenging time,” concluded Gen. Katumba.
The government’s decision to freeze district road funds underscores a proactive approach to address immediate threats arising from climate change.
As the heavy rains persist, the government’s focus on comprehensive restoration efforts post-rainfall signals a long-term commitment to building resilient infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges.
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