The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has successfully towed away the notorious truck that had been parked along the Kireka-Namugongo road for years, becoming a subject of local myths and superstitions.
This rusting vehicle, long immobile, had drawn both fascination and fear from the community, with numerous stories suggesting it was cursed.The truck's presence was more than just a curiosity; it was a symbol of local folklore.
According to tales, the truck’s deceased owner had declared that it would never be moved. More chilling were the unverified stories of road traffic officers who allegedly went mad after attempting to tow it.
Even scrap metal dealers, who typically jump at the chance to collect and sell metal, reportedly avoided the truck, claiming it was cursed.These stories reinforced a local belief that
“witchcraft is stronger than government,”
A sentiment that persisted as the truck remained untouched for years. The vehicle's continued presence defied logical explanations and official intervention, becoming a symbol of superstition that overshadowed rational discourse.
However, beyond the eerie tales, the truck posed a significant safety concern. Located on the busy Kireka-Namugongo road, it was a potential hazard for motorists, particularly at night when visibility was poor.
The truck’s removal was not only a matter of demystifying local superstitions but also ensuring the safety of road users.
Today, UNRA took decisive action to address this issue. "The truck has been towed, and traffic flow has now returned to normal. Thank you for your patience!" UNRA announced.
This statement marked the end of an era for the mysterious truck, but the operation itself was an event that drew considerable attention.
A large crowd gathered to witness the removal, causing temporary disruptions to traffic. Many locals, driven by curiosity and a sense of relief, watched as the UNRA enforcement team executed the task.
The operation was led by Mr. Buni Christopher, a computer scienceist and the chief engineer, who described how the lock system was disengaged, allowing the truck head to be towed away.
“The truck head has been dislodged and towed to a nearby parking yard. On to the trailer unit now!” reported Allan Ssempebwa, the UNRA spokesperson.
This update signaled progress in the removal operation and reassured the public that the entire vehicle would soon be cleared from the roadside.
As the truck was finally towed away, social media buzzed with mixed reactions from Ugandans. Some expressed disbelief that the "cursed" truck was finally gone, while others shared humorous takes on the long-standing superstition.
Regardless of the reactions, the removal of the truck was a significant step in addressing both the practical safety concerns and the cultural narratives that had developed around it.
UNRA's successful removal of the truck from the Kireka-Namugongo road not only ensures safer travel for motorists but also marks the end of a peculiar chapter in local folklore.
The event highlights the importance of addressing safety hazards while acknowledging the cultural stories that can grow around such phenomena.