Encroachers demolished as URC reclaims Kampala-Kasese railway corridor
Ugandan authorities have begun a large-scale operation to evict thousands of residents living within the Kampala-Kasese railway corridor. The government is enforcing a 60-metre-wide safety zone, leading to the demolition of homes and businesses.
Why it matters
The operation highlights the tension between infrastructure development, urban planning, and the displacement of vulnerable populations.
By Benson Tumusiime & Khalil Ibrahim Manzil
Heavy security forces comprising the Police Field Force Unit and Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) enforcement officers yesterday descended on Madanda Village, Kyengera Town Council in Wakiso District, marking the start of a massive nationwide operation to evict thousands of people occupying railway reserve land.
A tractor demolishes a house as police and Uganda Railways Corporation (URC) officials evict encroachers from railway land in Madanda Village, Kyengera Town Council, on October 19, 2026. Tears flowed as the URC’s deadline expired and demolitions began. While some residents pleaded for more time to pack up and leave, others called for compensation. PHOTO / ABUBAKER LUBOWA
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