Four Killed After Taxi Crashes Into Train in Bugweri District — Police Probe Deadly Railway Accident
Bugweri, Uganda — A fatal taxi–train collision in Bugweri District has left four people dead and several others injured in one of the most serious transport accidents reported along the Mbale–Tirinyi–Iganga Road this month. The deadly crash occurred on Saturday afternoon at the Butongole Railway Crossing, a location previously flagged by residents for poor visibility and safety concerns.
According to police, the passenger taxi — a commuter drone with registration UBN 282J — was traveling toward Mbale when it crashed into a moving train, causing the vehicle to overturn multiple times. Three passengers died instantly, while a fourth victim was pronounced dead at Iganga Main Hospital, where other survivors remain admitted.
Police Investigate Cause of Bugweri Train Accident
Regional police spokesperson ASP Kasadha Michael confirmed that officers have launched a full investigation into the Bugweri train crash to determine whether the driver ignored warning signs, misjudged the train’s speed, or if the crossing itself poses structural safety risks. Authorities documented the crash site, interviewed witnesses, and transported the bodies to Iganga Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examinations.
Railway and Road Safety Concerns Rise
The Bugweri taxi crash has intensified calls for improved railway crossing safety, with transport officials and local leaders urging motorists to slow down, check both directions, and treat all rail intersections as high-risk zones. The Mbale–Tirinyi–Iganga corridor has seen a rise in serious accidents involving taxis, trucks, and motorcycles, raising concerns about road maintenance, signage, and driver behavior.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Updates
Residents say the Butongole crossing remains poorly marked and dangerous, especially during peak travel hours. The latest incident has renewed pressure on authorities to install clearer warning signals, barriers, and lighting at railway intersections across eastern Uganda.
Police have assured the public that more details will be released as investigations progress.
This is a developing story. More updates will follow.
