New Kampala Roads Designed to Prevent Future Dig-Ups

Road construction in the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area is adopting a forward-thinking approach to preserve newly laid tarmac. Alongside standard roadworks, drainage, and walkways, some projects are now integrating underground service ducts. These conduits are designed to accommodate water pipes, electricity cables, and telecommunications lines.

The goal is to eliminate the need for utility companies to dig up roads whenever installations, repairs, or maintenance are required. This new strategy is particularly crucial given the significant investment in road infrastructure, with plans to upgrade over 600 kilometers in the metropolitan area within five years. The substantial cost of road construction and the high price of rehabilitation make protecting these assets from unnecessary damage a priority.

State Minister for Kampala Capital City and Metropolitan Affairs, Kabuye Kyofatogabye, emphasized that this approach aims to safeguard public funds. “We plan to provide a service duct, where water and other like telecom cables all pass through the service duct,” he stated. “The service duct is intended to avoid cutting our roads all the time.” This measure is expected to prevent the familiar scenario of new roads being immediately cut open for utility work.

While construction phases may cause temporary disruptions, including dust and access issues, the long-term benefits are anticipated to outweigh these inconveniences. The integrated service ducts mean that once a road is completed, it should remain intact, preserving its integrity and reducing future maintenance costs. The investment in these roads also includes aesthetic improvements like walkways and streetlights, encouraging property owners to enhance their surroundings.

In areas like Makindye Ssabagabo and Entebbe, ongoing projects are showcasing this integrated approach. Despite the challenges during construction, the expectation is that the finished roads will significantly improve connectivity, trade, and daily livelihoods by providing reliable access to schools, businesses, and transport hubs without the constant threat of utility-related road damage.

Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/business/prosper/saving-new-roads-from-the-next-dig-5561778