A tragic incident occurred at Namagera Central sugarcane weighbridge in Jinja district, claiming the lives of two casual labourers, Abdul Muwereza, 34, and Hassan Mubiru, 35. According to eyewitnesses, the victims were taking shelter under a jackfruit tree during a rainstorm when lightning struck. The incident highlights the risks faced by casual workers in the region who often lack proper shelter from harsh weather conditions.
The incident unfolded when about 15 workers sought shelter under the jackfruit tree as rain threatened. However, their supervisor called some of them to offload sugarcane from a truck, and 10 workers responded to the assignment, while four remained behind. Shortly afterwards, a loud blast was heard about five metres from the truck. The workers gathered at their emergency assembly point but realised that four of their colleagues were missing.
A search of the weighbridge parking yard led to the discovery of Muwereza and Mubiru lying beneath the jackfruit tree. According to Scovia Mirembe, a cleaner at the weighbridge, the two victims were rushed to Buwenge General Hospital, where they were pronounced dead on arrival. Their bodies were later transferred to Jinja Regional Referral Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations before being handed over to their families for burial.
The incident has exposed the lack of designated shelter at the weighbridge, forcing casual workers to seek refuge under trees during rainfall. Mirembe noted that the workers needed proper shelter to protect them from dangerous weather conditions while carrying out their duties. The absence of adequate shelter raises concerns about the safety and welfare of casual workers in the region.
Jinja District LC V chairperson Moses Batwala has urged residents to observe government weather safety advisories, particularly during thunderstorms. Batwala cautioned residents against taking shelter under trees during thunderstorms, noting that trees can attract lightning and expose people sheltering beneath them to danger. His comments underscore the need for public awareness on weather safety.
The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of safety measures in the workplace, particularly for casual workers who may be more vulnerable to hazards. Employers and authorities must ensure that workers have access to proper shelter and safety equipment to prevent such incidents in the future. The community is still reeling from the shock of the tragic event.
The local authorities and employers are expected to take steps to address the safety concerns raised by this incident. Providing adequate shelter and safety equipment for casual workers is crucial to preventing similar incidents in the future. The community will be watching closely to ensure that necessary actions are taken to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.
Key points
- Two casual labourers killed by lightning at Namagera Central sugarcane weighbridge in Jinja district.
- The incident highlights the lack of designated shelter for casual workers at the weighbridge.
- Authorities urge residents to observe government weather safety advisories during thunderstorms.
