WAKISO – A devastating fuel tanker accident occurred on Tuesday evening in Kigogwa Town along the Kampala-Bombo road, resulting in the loss of 11 lives, including nine adults and two minors. The victims were burnt beyond recognition.
According to Kampala Metropolitan Police Spokesperson Patrick Onyango, the fuel tanker, with registration number UAM 292Q, was traveling from Kampala to Gulu when it overturned and caught fire. Unfortunately, people who rushed to siphon fuel from the tanker were the most affected.
This tragic incident has destroyed four buildings housing nine shops, resulting in millions of shillings in property losses. The injured were rushed to nearby health facilities for treatment. Police are conducting a fact-finding mission to confirm the number of injured persons and establish the identities of those affected.
Sadly, this accident is not an isolated incident in Uganda. According to the Uganda Police Force, fuel tanker accidents have become a recurring problem, resulting in significant loss of life and property. In 2022 alone, Uganda recorded 15 fuel tanker accidents, claiming 43 lives and injuring 71 people.
The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) reports that between 2015 and 2020, the country experienced 37 fuel tanker explosions, resulting in 187 deaths and 345 injuries. These statistics highlight the urgent need for improved safety measures and public awareness campaigns.
The causes of these accidents often include driver fatigue, reckless driving, and inadequate vehicle maintenance. Additionally, the lack of emergency response planning and inadequate infrastructure contribute to the severity of these incidents.
To mitigate these risks, the Ugandan government and transportation industry stakeholders must prioritize:
- Enhanced driver training programs
- Regular vehicle inspections and maintenance
- Improved road infrastructure
- Public education campaigns on fuel tanker safety
- Effective emergency response planning
