Engineers Demand Independent Probe Into Mukono Train-Bus Crash

The Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) is calling for an independent investigation into the recent fatal train-bus collision in Mukono. The engineers' body insists the probe must be led by engineering professionals to thoroughly examine potential systemic safety failures, alongside the actions of the bus driver.

The collision occurred on July 10 at the Namumira railway crossing on Katosi Road in Mukono Municipality. A commuter train bound for Kampala struck a Friendship Company bus carrying students from Mwebaza High School to Jinja for an educational trip. The accident resulted in the death of one female teacher and injuries to dozens of students, who were subsequently transported to nearby medical facilities.

Preliminary government reports attributed the crash to alleged reckless driving by the bus driver, with State Minister for Fred Byamukama stating the driver reportedly ignored crossing signals and warnings. Some surviving students also indicated the driver was speeding and appeared fatigued. Parliament has since tasked its Committee on Physical Infrastructure with investigating the incident.

UIPE welcomed Parliament's decision and supported calls for a nationwide safety audit of railway crossings. The institution emphasized the need for an investigation that is technically competent, evidence-based, and impartial. "Preliminary reports have suggested that the bus driver may have failed to comply with traffic instructions at the crossing. This allegation must be properly investigated and should neither be dismissed nor treated as the complete explanation before all the evidence has been examined," UIPE stated. They urged investigators to scrutinize factors such as crossing design, visibility, stopping distances, road conditions, warning systems, and train operations. UIPE also wants the probe to clarify institutional responsibilities for the crossing's operation and maintenance, and whether prior safety concerns were addressed.

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Preliminary reports have suggested that the bus driver may have failed to comply with traffic instructions at the crossing. This allegation must be properly investigated and should neither be dismissed nor treated as the complete explanation before all the evidence has been examined.