UNRA Announces Traffic Flow Changes at Nkumba Traffic Lights

In response to a series of recent road accidents at the Nkumba traffic lights section along the Kampala-Entebbe Highway, the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced traffic flow changes to enhance safety and reduce the risk of future incidents. 

Following a technical inspection, UNRA has identified safety risks associated with the current setup and is implementing interim measures to enhance road safety and prevent future accidents.

The first set of traffic lights on the Kampala side of the Nkumba junction will be removed, and the median opening will be closed with jersey barriers. This temporary measure aims to address safety concerns arising from the current traffic signal configuration, which has been identified as contributing to accidents.

According to UNRA, the existing setup, with two sets of traffic lights positioned approximately 100 meters apart, has created a safety risk due to the potential for motorists to see the second set of lights before the first. Additionally, the first set of signals is located after a crest, limiting visibility for vehicles traveling at higher speeds.

UNRA noted that the removal of the first set of traffic lights and the closure of the median opening will streamline traffic flow and prevent pedestrian crossovers at the junction. However, these changes will also result in some alterations to driving routes. Vehicles traveling from Kampala towards Entebbe will no longer be able to turn right at the Nkumba junction. Instead, they will be directed to the next junction with traffic lights.

"Motorists from Entebbe who previously made a right turn to connect to Nkumba University will now need to proceed to the Mpala interchange to make a U-turn."

UNRA has also announced plans for long-term safety improvements, including the construction of a footbridge at the Nkumba junction. "For long-term safety, we are proposing the construction of a footbridge at this location to ensure safe pedestrian crossing without disrupting vehicular traffic," a UNRA stated.