Tragic Accident on Kampala-Gulu Highway: 46 Lives Lost in Multi-Vehicle Crash
In a devastating incident on the Kampala-Gulu Highway, 46 people have tragically lost their lives following a collision involving four vehicles. Initially reported as 63 fatalities, the Uganda Police Force later revised the death toll, clarifying that some of the earlier counts included individuals who were unconscious but are now receiving medical treatment.
The accident occurred around 12:15 AM local time (21:15 GMT) when two buses traveling in opposite directions collided head-on while attempting to overtake a lorry and a car. In a desperate attempt to avoid the impending crash, one of the buses swerved, resulting in a catastrophic head-on and side collision that triggered a chain reaction, causing multiple vehicles to lose control and overturn.
Alongside the fatalities, numerous passengers sustained injuries, prompting immediate medical attention. Injured individuals were transported to various hospitals in the western town of Kiryandongo. The police are currently collaborating with health and emergency services to confirm the number of injured and provide accurate updates as investigations into the cause of this tragic event continue.
President Yoweri Museveni expressed his sorrow over the accident, extending condolences to the grieving families. He emphasized the importance of road safety to prevent future tragedies and announced that each bereaved family would receive five million shillings (approximately $1,430 or £1,070), along with one million shillings for those injured.
The Kampala-Gulu Highway is one of Uganda’s busiest routes, and in the wake of this disaster, police are urging all motorists to exercise caution and avoid dangerous overtaking maneuvers, which remain a leading cause of road accidents in the country.
As investigations unfold, the community remains in mourning, and efforts to enhance road safety measures are more critical than ever.
