Poor roads irk riders in Buliisa
“We are struggling every day. The roads are impassable when it rains. We need the authorities to act quickly,” said Kyalisima.
Buliisa: Boda boda riders in Biiso Town Council, oil-rich Bulisa district are raising the alarm over the increasingly poor state of roads, especially during the rainy season, which they say is making their work more dangerous and less profitable.
The riders, operating from various parts of Buliisa District, report that the road conditions deteriorate drastically when it rains becoming muddy, flooded, and extremely slippery.
This not only leads to frequent motorcycle breakdowns and accidents but also causes significant delays in transporting passengers and goods.
In areas with large potholes and inadequate drainage, some riders say they are forced to take longer and riskier routes to reach their destinations, increasing operational costs and time.
Speaking to UG Reports on Sunday, Godwin Kyalisima, a boda boda rider at Biiso Stage, appealed to district leaders for urgent intervention to improve road infrastructure before the situation worsens further.
“We are struggling every day. The roads are impassable when it rains. We need the authorities to act quickly,” said Kyalisima.
The riders emphasized that improved road conditions would not only boost their livelihoods but also enhance road safety and ease of transportation for the wider community.
Gerald Atugonza, another rider stressed that they are incurring extra costs in maintaining their motorcycles due to poor state of the roads.
‘’At least every week I go to garage due to the poor state of the roads, I’m spending a lot of money to repair the motorcycle. Most roads in upper Buliisa are in poor state compared to those in lower Buliisa,’’ he stated.
In addition to road-related grievances, the boda boda riders are also highlighting other pressing issues affecting their work including personal hygiene, professional appearance, and an increasing number of unpaid rides.
Night Jieema Godwin, another rider at Biiso Stage, emphasized the importance of maintaining a clean and respectable appearance while on duty.
He noted that how a rider presents themselves through proper clothing, footwear, and well-maintained gear can significantly influence a passenger’s comfort and trust.
“Being a rider isn’t just about transport. It’s about giving passengers a safe and respectful experience,” he said.
However, riders also voiced frustration over passengers who evade paying fares after reaching their destinations. They say this growing trend is impacting their already limited earnings and undermines their commitment to providing timely and professional service.
The riders are calling on the local community and authorities to recognize and address these challenges, which they believe are crucial for improving both their working conditions and the overall quality of transport services in Buliisa.
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