By Bagarukayo Abdul
Physical planners and urban planners play a crucial role in shaping the future of our cities and towns. However, their efforts are often hindered by haphazard development, which poses significant challenges to sustainable urbanization. In many parts of Uganda, developers construct buildings without approved plans, disregarding critical infrastructure and utility lines.
This unregulated development can lead to structures being erected on waterway reserves, electricity transmission lines, or sewerage systems, posing serious safety risks and complicating service delivery. For instance, buildings constructed near water mains may disrupt water supply systems, while those near power lines can create electrical hazards.
In Uganda, areas like Kampala’s Kisenyi and Katwe neighborhoods have witnessed rampant unplanned development, with structures encroaching on wetlands and road reserves. Similar trends are observed in other rapidly urbanizing centers like Jinja, Mbarara, and Gulu.
To mitigate these challenges, physical planners and urban planners must remain vigilant and enforce strict adherence to development guidelines. This includes ensuring that all construction projects comply with approved building plans, setbacks, and zoning regulations.
By working together, we can promote orderly development, safeguard critical infrastructure, and create sustainable, livable cities for all Ugandans. The National Physical Planning Authority and local governments must collaborate to enforce regulations, raise awareness, and protect the public interest.
Only through collective effort can we curb the menace of haphazard development and build a better future for our towns and cities.
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