The Independent Uganda: You get the Truth we Pay the Price
Kampala, Uganda | THE INDEPENDENT | At least 14 people have been killed and more than 40 others injured in road accidents involving motorcycles and vehicles in Aswa river region in the last four months.
The fatalities were recorded in Gulu, Amuru and Kitgum districts. The deadly accidents have been attributed to over speeding, excess loading, reckless driving and driving under the influence of alcohol.
The nastiest accident happened in August when seven traders died and three others were critically injured after a Fuso lorry registration number UAZ 314Z they were travelling in overturned at Akworo village in Labongo Amida sub county in Kitgum district.
Denis Ojwee, a resident of Gulu town blames the rampant accidents on the ignorance of road users compounded by the excitement of the improved road infrastructure in towns and major roads in the region.
Gladys Oroma, a resident of senior quarters in Gulu municipality also blames the accidents on insensitive road users especially Boda-boda motorists, who are often careless.
Jimmy Patrick Okema, the Aswa river region police spokesperson, explains that while police takes the lead on road safety sensitization, other stakeholders like the media and other public institutions should step in.
In March this year, disgruntled residents of Koro trading center in Omoro district blocked Gulu-Kampala highway to protest the escalating road accidents arguing that several people have sustained broken limbs and injuries on Gulu road.
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