By Frank Kamuntu
Buikwe District — A fatal road accident in the early hours of Monday has left one person dead and four others injured after a Scania bus belonging to Gateway Bus Company overturned along the Katosi–Nyenga Road.
The accident occurred at around 1:30 AM in Katovu, Ngongwe, involving a Scania bus with registration number UA 354AN, which was en route from Kampala to Soroti via the Katosi route.
According to ASP Michael Kananura, the Uganda Police Traffic and Road Safety spokesperson, a front tyre burst caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, which overturned onto its right side.
“The driver died instantly, while four passengers sustained injuries of varying degrees,” said ASP Kananura.
Emergency responders from the Traffic Police transported the injured victims to Nkonkonjeru Health Centre and Kawolo Hospital, while the body of the deceased driver was taken to Kawolo Hospital Mortuary for a postmortem.
The bus was towed to Ngongwe Police Station as investigations into the crash commenced.
A Growing Concern
The crash adds to Uganda’s rising toll of road accidents, sparking renewed concerns over mechanical failures in public transport, especially during night travel.
According to the Uganda Police Annual Traffic Report (2024), the country recorded 20,394 road crashes, with 3,901 categorized as fatal. These incidents claimed 4,806 lives, with tyre bursts and poor vehicle maintenance among the leading causes.
“Motorists must conduct regular vehicle maintenance, especially tyre inspections, and strictly adhere to road safety regulations,” ASP Kananura emphasized. “A simple oversight can have fatal consequences.”
Night Travel Under Scrutiny
The latest Gateway Bus incident has once again put night travel under the microscope. With an average of 13 road crash fatalities per day, authorities are urging transport companies to prioritize the mechanical integrity of their fleets and adhere to safety protocols.
As investigations continue, police have reiterated their appeal to all drivers to remain vigilant and proactive in vehicle upkeep.
“This tragedy is a reminder that safety starts with responsibility. No life should be lost due to preventable mechanical faults,” Kananura said.
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