UPDF intensify search efforts for Bulambuli mudslide victims

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NEWS– The Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) 3 Infantry Division has stepped up search and recovery operations for missing persons believed to be trapped after the devastating Bulambuli District landslide .

Major General Don Nabasa, the 3 infantry division Commander confirmed the ongoing recovery efforts during a field assessment of the affected area yesterday.

He also confirmed the increase in fatalities to 31 that came after the forces retrieved the body of Waniala Paul, 55, from Masugu village.

Maj. Gen. Nabasa called  for more equipment to aid in the recovery process from the Office of the Prime Minister and other partners.

Brig Gen Fred Rugadya Akiki, the Head of the National Emergency Coordination Center highlighted that various ministries and NGOs are working together to deliver essential services to the displaced, including clean water, mosquito nets, large tents, fumigation, meals, and a standby ambulance. The government has also allocated funds for drilling additional boreholes in plot 148.

Brig Gen Akiki acknowledged the vital support from NGOs such as UNFPA, the Red Cross, Oxfam, Caritas, the Salvation Army, CRS, and ACORD, among others.

“The Ministry of Works is also planning to upgrade access roads to accommodate 248 new households, which will be relocated to separate three-acre plots”, he added.

These collective efforts are aimed at ensuring the success of search operations and the safe resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs).