Kampala-Namanve Railway Rehabilitation Nears Completion Despite Challenges

The final phase of the Kampala-Namanve railway rehabilitation project is underway, aiming for completion by December, as revealed by John Linonn Sengendo, spokesperson for the Uganda Railways Corporation (URC). Originally scheduled for completion in September, the project faced delays attributed to unforeseen circumstances, including resistance from encroachers unwilling to vacate occupied land required for the works.

Encountering challenges such as heavy rains and conflicting schedules with other government agencies prioritizing road rehabilitation, the project is now focused on the Mukwano Road railway crossing, the last of the crossings. To meet the new deadline, the URC is optimistic about overcoming obstacles and ensuring timely completion of the Kampala-Namanve stretch.

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In anticipation of works on the Mukwano Road railway crossing, the URC announced the temporary closure of the crossing from December 1 to December 16, 2023. To minimize traffic disruptions, a temporary diversion route connecting Mukwano Roundabout to Jinja Road is being prepared for light vehicles, motorcycles, and pedestrians. This crossing is a vital traffic junction, connecting the Central Business District with bustling suburbs like Industrial Area, Namwongo, Kibuli, and beyond.

URC expressed frustration with service providers unauthorizedly digging up their embankment and reserve to lay cables, causing additional delays. The completion of the Wankoko crossing along the Spring Road marked a positive milestone in the project.

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Notably, the construction involves the use of concrete sleepers instead of steel ones for greater durability, stability, and resistance to vandalism. The laying of sleepers and rails has reached Nakawa, with the Nakawa-Namboole stretch awaiting the placement of ballast (stone) and leveling.

Looking ahead, the reconstruction from Namanve to Mukono is planned for next year, managed by the Spanish firm Imathia Construction at an estimated cost of about sh101 billion. However, URC acknowledges that the encountered delays are contributing to an increase in the project’s overall cost.