A tragic road accident in Rukiga District on Sunday morning left at least 62 people injured when a Gateway Bus overturned along the Kampala-Kabale highway.
The ill-fated bus, registration number UBM 707X, was traveling from Kampala towards Kabale when it lost control and flipped at Rwabahazi Cell, Muhanga Ward, around 6:40 AM.
Witnesses said the vehicle swerved off the road and overturned, scattering passengers and debris across the highway.Locals, in a swift rescue effort, rushed to assist passengers trapped inside the wreckage. Many passengers were pulled to safety by nearby residents and first responders.
The injured were transported to Rotom Health Center in Muhanga and Kabale Regional Referral Hospital for further treatment.
Among the victims was Rwakinda Dafuroza, a pedestrian walking along the roadside, who sustained severe leg injuries after being hit by the overturned bus.Medical staff at Kabale Hospital said her leg may require amputation due to the extent of her injuries.
According to Geoffrey Turinawe, an eyewitness, the community played a crucial role in the rescue before emergency services arrived. “People from nearby homes ran to the scene and helped pull the victims out of the wreckage,” Turinawe said.
The Gateway Bus Muhanga manager, Paul Ekyamazima, explained that the driver claimed to have swerved to avoid a motorcycle rider (boda boda) that had suddenly entered his path. However, some passengers raised concerns about possible driver fatigue.
Ronnie Nowamani and Mukasa Emma, both aboard the bus, said they were asleep when the accident occurred and suspected the driver may have dozed off.
At Rotom Health Center, Dr. Brian Mujjuni Byaruhanga, the in-charge, confirmed they had received around 40 victims with minor injuries like bruises and cuts. Those with more serious injuries, including fractures, were referred to Kabale Hospital.
“None of the patients admitted here were in critical condition,” he said.
By press time, police had yet to release a formal statement, but investigations were underway to determine the exact cause of the accident. Authorities have cautioned drivers on the highway to be vigilant, especially in the early morning hours when visibility is low.
