By Bicholin K Musisi

Scores of passengers were injured on Thursday when a Gateway bus heading to Abim plunged into floodwaters at Alito Bridge, leaving its front section submerged.

The bus, travelling from Lira to Abim, reportedly attempted to cross the flooded bridge before losing control and tilting into deep waters, throwing passengers off their seats.

The victims were taken to Abim Hospital for emergency treatment.

Residents said the crash reflects the dire state of Abim’s roads, which have remained nearly impassable for weeks after heavy rains.

The Lira–Abim and Soroti–Abim routes are particularly treacherous, with vehicles often stranded for days.

“This is not the first time we are seeing such accidents,” said passenger Peter Odong. “Leaders have been silent while people continue to suffer on these roads.”

The Abim–Kotido road has also been described as a “death trap,” with muddy stretches and broken bridges frustrating transport.

Residents accused the government of decades-long neglect, noting that neither the Abim–Lira nor Abim–Soroti roads have been tarmacked despite repeated promises.

“These roads have been on government plans for decades, but to date nothing has been done, not even the construction of decent bridges,” said Jane Akello, a concerned resident.

Police and local authorities have since cautioned drivers to remain vigilant on flood-prone routes in the Karamoja and Lango sub-regions as rains continue to disrupt transport.