KCCA relocates dozens of birds for Esso Corner Junction upgrade
The Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA), in partnership with the Uganda Wildlife Authority, has moved over 50 birds from the area near Victoria University along Jinja Road (Esso Corner Junction).
According to KCCA, this relocation is intended to clear the site for the installation of traffic signals at the junction near Victoria as part of the Project for Improvement of Traffic Control in Kampala City.
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On Monday, the authority announced that the planned upgrades to five roundabouts in the city would impact several trees that provide habitat for the birds.
"Please note that 27 junctions with 5 roundabouts are receiving these major upgrades to address traffic congestion and mobility challenges, and as such, several trees within these locations have been/will be affected," KCCA noted.
KCCA emphasised its commitment to expediting infrastructure development while being mindful of environmental considerations.
This week, KCCA began removing the roundabouts, starting with the one at Grand Imperial Standard Chartered Bank, in preparation for their signalisation.
According to KCCA, the signalisation of these junctions is part of a larger initiative to alleviate traffic congestion in the face of ongoing urban development and rising traffic levels.
However, the action has sparked concerns among some individuals who worry about the implications of relocating the birds from their natural environments.
Others argue that moving the birds deprives tourists, particularly bird watchers, of the opportunity to enjoy observing these birds in the city.
On Monday, KCCA maintained that while these necessary infrastructural developments have led to the removal of some trees, it remained committed to balancing urban expansion with environmental conservation.
Acknowledging concerns from city residents regarding the loss of green spaces, KCCA said it was working to mitigate the impact by planting over 10,000 new trees throughout the city.
Daniel NuweAbine, the KCCA Deputy Director of Public and Corporate Affairs said this reforestation effort is part of the broader Kampala City Roads Rehabilitation Project (KCRRP), which includes the construction of over 70 kilometers of new roads to enhance connectivity and safety for all road users.
"Infrastructure development is essential for Kampala’s growth, but we cannot ignore the importance of preserving the environment that makes our city livable," NuweAbine said.
"Trees are crucial to purifying the air, providing shade, and combating climate change, and though some have been removed, we are committed to enhancing Kampala’s green spaces." he added.
