Sand Mining Devastates River Obim, Exacerbates Flooding in Lira

Members of Uganda’s Parliamentary Committee on Climate Change have expressed grave concern over the state of River Obim in Lira District, where unregulated sand mining operations have led to significant environmental damage. During a recent oversight mission, the committee, led by Chairperson Aggrey Henry Bagiire, witnessed firsthand how extensive sand excavation has created deep pits along the riverbanks.

These borrow pits are reportedly disrupting the natural flow of water, causing increased flooding upstream. “We saw the river had totally degraded. People are excavating sand, so it is causing flooding upstream because they have dug borrow pits, and the water cannot move seamlessly,” stated Mr. Bagiire.

The environmental impact extends beyond flooding, with the committee noting the disruption of the river’s delicate ecosystem. The loss of frogs, which naturally help control mosquito populations, was specifically mentioned, alongside a general disorganization of the river’s flora and fauna due to soil erosion and mining.

In response to the destructive practices, Mr. Bagiire urged local residents to explore alternative livelihood options. He highlighted government initiatives such as the Parish Development Model (PDM) and livestock restocking programs as sustainable alternatives to environmentally damaging activities. “We are telling them that the President is sending money for PDM. Why don’t they use this money and leave this destruction of the environment?” he questioned, encouraging investment in productive sectors like animal husbandry.

While Lira District faces these challenges, the committee did acknowledge Lira District’s efforts in environmental management, citing their proactive wetland demarcation and a “Green Procurement” policy that mandates tree planting for contractors. However, limited funding and increased logistical costs due to administrative divisions pose ongoing challenges to effective environmental intervention across the region.

Source: Daily Monitor