Car bonds face eviction along Nakawa-Banda-Kireka road reserve

The Ministry of Works and Transport (MoWT) has issued a public notice announcing the planned eviction of car bonds encroaching on the Nakawa-Banda-Kireka section of the Kampala-Jinja Highway road reserve. The move aims to alleviate traffic congestion, improve drainage, and enhance road safety along this critical corridor.

According to the notice, signed by Permanent Secretary Bageya Waiswa, the presence of car bonds within the designated road reserve violates Section 16(1) of the Roads Act, 2019. The Ministry asserts that these businesses have significantly contributed to the area’s notorious traffic woes, blocked drainage systems, and created a hazardous environment for road users.

“The establishment of car bonds within the designated road reserve contravenes Section 16(1) of the Roads Act, 2019 and has significantly contributed to traffic congestion, blockage of the drainage system and posing a serious safety hazard to road users along this critical road corridor,” the notice stated.

In line with Section 24(1) of the same Act, the Ministry is granting a 30-day grace period, commencing June 27th, 2025, for all affected car dealers and car bond operators to voluntarily vacate the area. This period allows businesses to relocate their operations and remove any structures or installations currently occupying the road reserve.

The notice explicitly warns that failure to comply within the stipulated timeframe will result in forceful eviction and the removal of any unauthorized structures or installations, with the costs borne by the owners.

The MoWT emphasized the importance of this exercise in restoring the functionality, safety, and overall integrity of this crucial section of the national road network. The eviction is seen as a necessary step to address the persistent traffic issues and improve the flow of vehicles along the Kampala-Jinja Highway.

While the notice has been welcomed by commuters and residents who have long suffered from the area’s traffic congestion, concerns have been raised regarding the potential economic impact on the affected car dealers and bond operators. It remains to be seen how the Ministry will assist these businesses in their relocation efforts, and what measures will be put in place to prevent future encroachment on road reserves.