By Our Reporter
NATIONAL
Two pupils have died on the spot, while 11 others are critically injured after a bus they were travelling in overturned at Kagavu, along Mubende–Kampala Road in Zigoti, Mityana District.
The fatal accident allegedly caused by a sleepy bus driver occurred at 5:30AM on the 3rd of August.
According to SP Michael Kananura, the Traffic Police Spokesperson, the crash involved a bus, registration number UAP829U belonging to HMK Transporters Ltd, which was transporting pupils, tour guides and the Head teacher of Day Star Primary School in Makindye, Kampala.
The bus was returning from a school tour in Kasese when, upon reaching Kagavu, the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing the vehicle to overturn. The crash instantly claimed the lives of 02 pupils, while 11 others who included 04 tour guides & the Headteacher sustained injuries.
This incident serves as a stern reminder to all school administrators that safety and well-being of pupils must be treated with the utmost seriousness. Children cannot make decisions for themselves, it is the responsibility of schools to ensure all necessary precautions are taken when planning such trips.
Police strongly urge all schools to avoid return journeys after long-distance school tours. Overnight rest should be planned to prevent fatigue-related crashes.
Thoroughly inspect and verify the mechanical condition of all hired vehicles and to ensure that drivers are professionally qualified, hold valid licenses and are sober, with no traces of alcohol before driving.
