news 26 August 2026 Daily Monitor (Uganda)
Uganda Police Identify Key Signs of Dangerously Mechanical Vehicles
Ugandan traffic authorities have detailed specific indicators of vehicles in dangerously mechanical condition (DMC) as a crackdown on unroadworthy commuter taxis intensifies in the Kampala Metropolitan Area. While some issues are visually apparent, others require expert inspection. Source: https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/key-features-of-vehicles-in-dangerous-mechanical-condition-5571340
Traffic police in Uganda are focusing on identifying vehicles in dangerously mechanical condition (DMC) as part of a 100-day operation targeting commuter taxis in the Kampala Metropolitan Area. The goal is to remove these unsafe vehicles from roads and reduce accidents.
According to SP Michael Kananura of the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety, some defects are easily spotted by the public, while others necessitate an inspection by vehicle experts. Visible issues include worn-out tires, non-functional headlights and brake lights, missing rear reflectors, and faulty or absent windscreen wipers.
“Some things can be fixed by an expert; the IOVs, like the brakes. But there are things which are visible; some of these vehicles, the ACs can evaporate, the chairs are worn out completely, the metals are out. A taxi is actually supposed to have fire extinguishers and first aid kits, and some of these things are visible,” SP Kananura noted, also mentioning shattered windscreens as another common problem.
However, visual checks alone are insufficient for diagnosing all mechanical faults. For disputed cases, vehicles are taken to an Inspector of Vehicles (IOV). Mr. Allan Ssempebwa from the Ministry of Works and Transport explained that inspectors examine a broad range of safety and mechanical components, including the braking system, suspension, lighting, exhaust emissions, and overall mechanical integrity.
Vehicles failing these structural and safety standards risk being removed from service, with their operating licenses revoked. The current operation prioritizes passenger service vehicles due to their role in public transportation and the higher number of fatalities often associated with them. Authorities have repeatedly found a high proportion of DMC vehicles among commuter taxis, which often carry up to 14 passengers.
Beyond safety, environmental concerns are also being addressed, as fumes from poorly maintained vehicles degrade air quality in Kampala. Vehicles impounded are returned to owners for repairs once confirmed by an IOV, after which they must pass a re-inspection. Mechanics report common repair needs including dashboard issues, interior refurbishment, wiring, and tire replacements.