Kampala, Uganda: The Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) has announced plans to install automated barrier systems at high-risk railway level crossings in Kampala, Wakiso and Mukono as part of efforts to reduce train-related road crashes.
The announcement follows Friday morning’s fatal collision between a passenger train and a Mwebaze High School bus at a railway crossing in Nakisunga Sub-county, Mukono District, which claimed one life and left several students injured.
In a statement issued later on Friday, the corporation described the incident as unfortunate and extended sympathy to those affected.
“Today’s events were deeply unfortunate. We extend our sincere concern to all those affected,” the statement read. URC said procurement for the new railway safety infrastructure is already at an advanced stage.
According to the corporation, the automated systems will include boom gates, flashing warning lights and audible alarms that will automatically activate whenever a train approaches a crossing.
“Uganda Railways Corporation is actively implementing interventions to address the risks at high-risk level crossings, and procurement is already in the advanced stages.”
The corporation said the systems are intended to improve safety for motorists, pedestrians, and other road users at some of the country’s busiest railway crossings.
While awaiting completion of the procurement and installation process, URC said it will immediately increase the deployment of personnel at railway crossings. “In the meantime, additional manpower will be deployed at all level crossings as an immediate safety measure.”
“Working with the Ministry of Works and Transport, humps will also be constructed on highway approaches to selected level crossings to reduce vehicle speed.”
The safety measures were announced hours after a train collided with a bus transporting students of Mwebaze High School from Kakiri to Jinja for an educational trip.
Police confirmed on Friday that one female passenger died at the scene, while several students sustained injuries and were rushed to Mukono General Referral Hospital and other nearby health facilities.
Investigations into the cause of the crash remain ongoing.
The incident has renewed calls for improved railway crossing safety, particularly in rapidly urbanising areas where road and rail traffic intersect frequently.
Uganda Railways Corporation has in recent years intensified public awareness campaigns urging motorists to exercise caution at level crossings, reminding road users that trains require considerably longer distances to stop than road vehicles.
The planned installation of automated barriers marks one of the most significant railway safety upgrades in recent years and is expected to reduce collisions at some of the country’s busiest crossings.
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