The spokesperson of the Uganda Police Directorate of Traffic & Road Safety SP kananura Michael has revealed that the driver of the HMK bus that crashed along Mubende–Kampala Road in Zigoti, Mityana District on Sunday while transporting pupils of Day Star Primary School, Makindye claiming the lives of two pupils fell asleep while on the wheel.
In a statement released on Sunday, kananura noted that the as the bus was returning from a school tour in Kasese, as it approached Kagavu, the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel, causing the vehicle to overturn.
“The crash instantly claimed the lives of two pupils, while 11 others who included four tour guides & the Head teacher sustained injuries. This incident serves as a stern reminder to all school administrators: safety & 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” Kananura noted.
He further urged all schools to avoid return journeys after long-distance school tours, thoroughly inspect & verify the mechanical condition of all hired vehicles.
“Ensure that drivers are professionally qualified, hold valid licenses & are sober, with no traces of alcohol before driving. Collaborate with Police, use the (IOV) to assess vehicle road worthiness, vet drivers thoroughly before allowing them to transport children and conduct alcohol tests where necessary. The lives of our children are too precious to be left to chance” he said.
