Motorists Banned From Murchison Falls National Park

Motorists will not be permitted to drive through Murchison Falls National Park past 7.00 pm, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) has announced.

The regulation is part of the new guidelines issued by the authority in preparation for the heavy traffic diversion through the protected area to access the northern region of Uganda after Uganda National Roads Authority (Unra) closed off Karuma bridge to heavy motor vehicles to allow for repairs on the 61-year-old deteriorating bridge.

In response to this closure, heavy vehicles will now need to utilize the protected area as an alternative route to the north.

“As custodians of this natural treasure, Uganda Wildlife Authority emphasizes the importance of adhering to regulations for both the safety of persons and the preservation of wildlife,” reads part of the press release.

The release specifies that the park operates between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm, hence motorists to plan their journeys accordingly and that no exceptions will be made.

Motorists opting to use this route, apart from those prohibited from using Karuma bridge as per Unra’s directive, will be required to pay an entrance fee. Additionally, a speed limit of 40 km/hr must be observed within the park, with immediate fines or penalties for non-compliance.  

Littering within the park is also strictly prohibited, with penalties imposed on the drivers who fail to prevent littering by their passengers. Motorists are further advised not to make unnecessary stops within the park to ensure the safety of wildlife and visitors, except for emergencies.

Furthermore, drivers must remain within designated driving areas, except for authorized tourist vehicles.

“Please note that all vehicles, except authorized tourist vehicles, are not allowed to deviate from the designated Kichumbanyobo – Tangi road. Any unauthorized diversions will be considered entry without a valid permit and will be penalized accordingly.”   

Additional guidelines include refraining from hooting and feeding animals within the park premises, both of which are strictly prohibited to maintain the park’s natural environment and wildlife safety.

SOURCE: NEWS AGENCIES