Floods damage Kasese's Nkoko Bridge, cut off sub-county from township

This destruction has severely impacted the daily lives of local residents, who now risk their safety by attempting to cross the unstable remains of the bridge.

Residents of Karusandara Sub-county and Hima Town Council in Kasese District are enduring severe hardships following extensive damage to the Nkoko Bridge, the only crossing linking the two localities.

The damage to the bridge, which has been in a state of disrepair for over months, has disrupted access to essential services such as healthcare, education, and commerce, leaving many isolated and frustrated.

This destruction has severely impacted the daily lives of local residents, some of whom risk their safety by crossing over what remains of the bridge.

One end of the structure has been dangerously eroded by water, leaving only a fragile layer of soil.

"We are risking our lives crossing this bridge every day," said Wilfred Thembo, a local resident. "If nothing is done soon, it will be a death trap."

The damage has also had a significant effect on trade between Karusandara and Hima, as residents can no longer transport goods and services easily across the region.

Abel Turyasingura, another resident, expressed concern that without immediate repairs, the livelihoods of many families will be at risk.

Local leaders and community members have been vocal in their pleas for action. Despite multiple appeals to government authorities, including the district and the Ministry of Works, no repairs have been made thus far.

"We have called upon various offices, but so far, no one has come to our aid," said Edson Byarugaba, a resident of Karusandara.

"The longer they delay, the worse this situation gets."

Erias Byamungu, the Chief Administrative Officer of Kasese District, acknowledged the severity of the situation but explained that the district lacks the funds necessary to carry out the required repairs.

The estimated cost to fix the bridge is over 100 million shillings, a sum the district cannot afford on its own.

"We are aware of the situation, but we need external support to handle the repairs," Byamungu said.

"We have submitted our request to the Ministry of Works and are waiting for their response."

In the meantime, district leadership remains hopeful that emergency funds will be allocated to allow for the commencement of repairs.

However, without a clear timeline, uncertainty continues to loom over the affected communities.

Local leaders have warned that further delays, especially with the rainy season intensifying, could exacerbate the crisis.

As the rains continue, there are fears that the remaining structure of the bridge will erode further, making the situation even more dangerous for residents.

The residents of Karusandara and Hima are demanding swift action from the government to prevent the complete collapse of the Nkoko Bridge and restore normalcy to their daily lives.