Passenger transport drivers in Kumi Municipality have boycotted the designated park yard and instead continue operating along the highway, protesting what they describe as poor conditions at the facility.
The standoff comes after municipal authorities directed taxis and buses to stop parking along the highway as part of efforts to restore order and improve traffic flow within the town.
According to the Deputy Mayor of Kumi Municipality, Julius Okello, the municipal council had earlier resolved to relocate all passenger vehicles to the designated park yard. He explained that the decision was also discussed and supported by the district security committee.
However, many transport operators have not complied with the directive and have continued operating along the highway where they say it is easier to attract passengers.
Okello said the continued presence of passenger vehicles along the highway is contributing to traffic congestion and overcrowding in the town center.
“Passenger vehicles operating along the highway create unnecessary congestion and pose safety risks to both motorists and pedestrians,” Okello said.
Despite the directive, transport operators insist that the park yard is not conducive for business. They cite several challenges at the facility, including the lack of safe toilets and inadequate lighting, which they say makes the area uncomfortable for both drivers and passengers.
Okello acknowledged the concerns raised by the drivers, admitting that the park yard currently lacks some essential facilities. However, he noted that the municipal council has already allocated funds to address the challenges.
“We are working to improve the park by installing safe toilets and lighting so that it becomes more convenient for the operators and passengers,” he said.
The deputy mayor also revealed that the municipality is in the process of recruiting additional enforcement officers who will help ensure that passenger vehicles operate from the designated park as required.
Meanwhile, several transport operators argue that the main reason they avoid the park yard is the low number of passengers there. According to them, operating along the highway allows them to easily access travelers and maintain their daily income.
Despite the resistance, Julius Okello emphasized that the municipality remains committed to ensuring that the park yard is fully utilized.
“We are working together with our technical team to ensure that the park is utilized and that transport operators comply with the regulations,” he said.
Local authorities believe that once the planned improvements are completed, the park yard will become more attractive and convenient for transport operators and passengers.
Officials say the move is part of broader efforts by Kumi Municipality to improve urban order, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance safety for residents and road users.
