By Steven Enatu
Soroti City’s engineering department is urgently addressing a critical issue of stagnant and foul-smelling water accumulating around Clinic Point and YY Coaches offices. The blocked drainage channel, which spans approximately 1 km from YY offices to the abattoir area, has left residents and business owners grappling with the unpleasant consequences.
City Engineer Robert Naimuli Kairu is leading a team in a frantic search for the missing design plans for the drainage system. The absence of these plans has left the department without a clear solution, forcing them to explore temporary measures to clear the accumulated water. However, the lack of a proper drainage system has sparked concerns about the potential health and environmental risks for the community.
Speaking on-site, Engineer Kairu assured that efforts are being made to resolve the crisis swiftly. He explained that the issue dates back to the early 1960s when the area served as a garbage sieving point. Back then, the drainage was open, but over time, the channel was removed, likely seen as a nuisance, leading to the current predicament.
“We’ve been assessing the situation, and I’ve engaged the National Water and Sewerage Corporation to explore possible solutions. However, this is a complex issue that will require a significant investment and specialized expertise,” Engineer Kairu stated.
He further noted that the channel is heavily blocked with debris, making access difficult. Addressing the problem will require a coordinated effort involving various stakeholders to develop an effective and sustainable solution.
Fred Eribu, a concerned resident, expressed his frustration, highlighting the dire situation faced by the community. “When it rains, we can’t run our businesses. The authorities need to act because we pay taxes, and we deserve better,” he urged.
The situation has placed Soroti City’s engineering department under immense pressure as they work to resolve the drainage crisis and restore normalcy to the affected areas.