Africa-Press – Uganda. Farmers, who rely on the route to transport their produce, have been particularly hard hit, with stockpiles of bananas, watermelons, and onions now stranded in Karusandara.
Residents of Karusandara Sub-county in Kasese District are reeling from the collapse of Nkoko Bridge, their sole connection to Hima Town Council, after devastating floods swept through the area earlier this week.
Heavy rains in the surrounding mountains caused River Mubuku to overflow, triggering floods that submerged homes, displaced families, and left the community grappling with isolation.
The destruction of the bridge has disrupted access to essential services, including schools, healthcare, and markets.
Farmers, who rely on the route to transport their produce, have been particularly hard hit, with stockpiles of bananas, watermelons, and onions now stranded in Karusandara.
“The floods came and destroyed the bridge. We sought help and received some, but last Thursday, children couldn’t go to school because the only route was cut off,” said John Mwesigye, a resident of Karusandara.
Fred Bindeba, another affected resident, described the plight of families forced out of their homes.
“Many houses have been submerged. Only those with money have managed to rent elsewhere. People like me and my children can only seek refuge in the neighborhood,” he said.
Karusandara, known as a regional food basket, has seen its agricultural sector grind to a halt. With plantations waterlogged and transport cut off, farmers face mounting losses.
“All the plantations have suffered too much water since last season. We are simply hustling to survive,” lamented Gilbert Bukenya, a farmer.
Local leaders have pledged to address the crisis. Eriphaz Muhindi, the district chairperson, said efforts are underway to restore the Nkoko Bridge and reconnect the community.
However, financial constraints have slowed progress.
As residents adapt to the unfolding challenges, the disaster highlights the urgent need for long-term solutions to mitigate the effects of flooding and strengthen infrastructure to withstand extreme weather events.
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