A devastating accident claimed the lives of five traders and left three others critically injured early Wednesday morning. The incident occurred as the traders were on their way to the Obalanga Cattle Market in Kapelebyong District.
The tragedy unfolded around 6 a.m. on the Soroti-Amuria Road, near Alereke Bridge, which lies between Abia and Asamuk sub-counties. The truck, registered UAU 429R, lost control and plunged into the stagnant waters beneath the bridge.
Witnesses report that the vehicle was navigating a difficult turn when the driver lost control, leading to the catastrophic plunge.
East Kyoga Region Police Commander Damalie Nasuha, who arrived at the scene with a team of officers, reported that the victims were trapped under bags of produce, exacerbating the dire situation.
“The scene was harrowing, with victims trapped and unable to escape the rising water,” Nasuha said.
“Rescue efforts were immediate, but sadly, five traders drowned before they could be reached,” Nasuha added.
The survivors, who sustained critical injuries, were swiftly transported to Soroti Regional Referral Hospital for emergency treatment, while the bodies of the deceased were taken to Amuria General Hospital.
The police commander assured a thorough investigation into the incident and promised a detailed accident report once all casualties were accounted for.
This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers faced by traders traveling to local markets. It is the third fatal accident in Amuria involving produce-laden trucks in recent years.
In 2022, a similar accident resulted in the deaths of 13 traders from the Bugisu sub-region who were en route to the Adipala cattle market.
Local authorities and community leaders are calling for urgent improvements to road safety measures, including better maintenance of critical infrastructure like the Alereke Bridge. There is also a push for stricter regulations on vehicle loading to prevent such tragedies from recurring.
As the community mourns the loss of these traders, a vigil is being organized to honor their memory and support their families during this difficult time.
The incident has once again highlighted the need for comprehensive road safety reforms to protect the lives of those who depend on these routes for their livelihoods.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, especially on poorly maintained roads, to avoid further tragedies.
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