By KT Reporter
So far, two people are confirmed dead as floods submerge roads in Alebtong and Otuke districts. The first victim was swept away by running waters on Saturday, with his body retrieved on Monday morning, while another drowned on Wednesday. Both incidents occurred at Ayumu Bridge in Adwir Sub-County.
Meanwhile, Amonmaka Bridge, which connects Alango Sub-County in Otuke to Abia Sub-County in Alebtong, has been impassable since the beginning of the week due to heavy rains and rising water levels. Road users have resorted to crossing using a small canoe, paying between 2,000 and 10,000 shillings.
Transport fares to Otuke have now doubled from 10,000 to 20,000 shillings as travelers take an alternative route from Lira City through Barlonyo, Barjobi, and Adwari in Otuke. The road from Lira-Aloi to Adwari in Otuke is also cut off at Apak Bridge. Unlike Amonmaka, where a canoe is available, locals at Apak hold hands to cross the floods.
Fifteen-year-old Solomon Ogwal has turned the situation at Apak Bridge into a business. He and his friends have set up a camp at the bridge, helping road users cross the floods for a fee. Motorcycle riders are charged between 30,000 and 35,000 shillings, pedestrians pay 1,000 shillings for assistance, and 5,000 shillings is charged for luggage. Ogwal says business is booming.
According to him, the venture carries no risks as they are all experienced swimmers familiar with the waters.
On the other hand, Lameck Okello, a resident of Aloi Sub-County, says the flooded roads are affecting business since locals cannot safely transport goods to the market.
Daniel Ocen of Te-cwao Village in Aloi Sub-County believes extending Apak Bridge could reduce road flooding.
Opio Tom Richard, Superintendent of Works in Alebtong District, says rising water levels of River Moroto and its catchments have flooded many roads.
He added that the district aims to increase road maintenance to prevent further disruptions.
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