Motorists, cyclists, and boda boda riders along the Ntungamo–Rukungiri road are facing daily hazards as deep potholes, eroded sections, and gaping gullies make the highway nearly impassable.
Temporary repairs have failed repeatedly, leaving thousands of commuters exposed to accidents and costly vehicle damage.
From Fuelex Petrol Station in Ntungamo Municipality, the worst-hit stretches run through Karegyeya, Kyangara Kamyotsya, and Rwashamaire, reaching Rukungiri District.
During the rainy season, rainwater fills potholes, hiding their depth and dramatically increasing the risk of crashes.
There are so many potholes that we sometimes nearly collide with cars while dodging them. It’s dangerous every single day," Wilber Bahoora Kamugisha, a boda boda rider, said.
Special hire driver John Atwine added: "We call on the government to fix this road. The entire stretch from Ntungamo to Rukungiri is in a terrible state."
The deteriorated road also hits wallets hard. Tyres, suspensions, and wheel alignments suffer frequent damage, forcing commuters into repeated and costly repairs, while travel times stretch longer than usual.
Last year, the Ministry of Works and Transport announced rehabilitation plans, but locals say only a few sections were patched—and heavy rains washed them away.
"They patch potholes with murram, but it all washes away when it rains," said Bahoora.
Even President Museveni acknowledged the crisis during a campaign rally in Ntungamo, calling out the Ministry of Works and Transport for delays.
Local authorities, including Ntungamo RDC Miriam Kagaiga, urged patience.
"Be rest assured that this road is going to be worked upon because your vote to protect the gains means a lot."
The Ministry has now set a clear timeline for comprehensive rehabilitation, scheduled to start immediately.
Spokesperson Allan Ssempebwa confirmed on X: "Our teams are already scheduled to handle these deteriorated sections by next week."
For the thousands commuting daily along this vital highway, every pothole removed could mean safer, faster, and less costly journeys.
