Construction Delays Paralyze Nateete-Nakawuka Road, Commuters Protest Fare Hikes

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Transport operations along Nateete-Nakawuka Road have been severely disrupted due to the ongoing construction of the Nateete-Nalukolongo water channel, leaving commuters frustrated by skyrocketing transport fares and slow progress on the project. Â
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Residents and traders who rely on the route report that travel costs have doubled, with fares jumping from UGX 3,000 to UGX 6,000, as vehicles struggle to navigate the damaged and congested road. The construction, awarded to a Chinese contractor, has dragged on for three months with little visible progress, raising concerns over delays and inefficiency. Â
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Local business owners and daily commuters are calling on the Ministry of Works and Transport to intervene, citing economic strain and prolonged inconvenience. Â
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We used to spend UGX 3,000 to get to Nakawuka, but now it’s UGX 6,000. Many of us can’t afford this every day,said Asiimwe Alex, a trader in Nateete. The construction has caused traffic jams, yet we don’t see any work being done. Where is the accountability?

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Motorists and taxi operators also expressed frustration over the poor state of the road, which has worsened since the project began. Â
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The road is now impassable during heavy rain. We spend hours in traffic, and our vehicles are getting damaged,"said Robert Mubiru, a taxi driver on the Nateete-Nakawuka route. Â
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The project, intended to improve drainage and reduce flooding in the area, was awarded to a Chinese construction firm. However, residents claim that work has stalled, with no clear timeline for completion. Â
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Local leaders have urged the government to hold the contractor accountable and expedite the project to minimize public suffering. Â
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We understand the importance of this water channel, but the delays are unacceptable. The contractor must explain why there’s no progress, and the ministry should supervise the project more closely,"said a community representative from Nateete.Â