By Leonard Kamugisha Akida,
KAMPALA
The Uganda Railway Corporation (URC) has raised concerns over the increasing cases of vandalism targeting railway assets. This was revealed by URC Executive Director, Benon M. Kajuna, during a media engagement on URC’s performance and safety measures for railway reserves held at the Media Centre in Kampala on Wednesday.
“There are people stealing railway materials. We are currently rehabilitating the Tororo–Gulu line, and some individuals are taking advantage of this to steal railway infrastructure,” Kajuna said.
He identified Soroti, Wakiso, Kampala, Jinja, Gulu, and Tororo as the most affected areas. In some locations, suspects have been arrested and charged in connection with the vandalism.
According to Kajuna, vandalism not only hampers railway operations but also leads to significant financial losses for the country.
He also warned against individuals operating or encroaching on railway lines, stressing that such actions jeopardize both infrastructure and human safety. Kajuna further disclosed that the URC plans to compensate individuals who were evicted from railway reserves by 31st May 2022.
“Dropping garbage on railway lines is not allowed, as it compromises the safety of the infrastructure,” he added, urging the Ministry of Local Government and the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) to educate the public on proper use of railway corridors.
During the conference, Eng. Ssekitoleko Kafeero announced that the corporation plans to procure 10 new locomotives and 100 wagons as part of efforts to enhance railway transport in Uganda and the East African region. He also revealed that Uganda currently transports over 250,000 cargo consignments annually, with plans to increase this number in the near future.
