Taxis drivers and owners might be cursing the ongoing traffic police operation targeting taxis in dangerous mechanical condition, but mechanics in Kampala are celebrating what they describe as a rare opportunity to work on a large number of vehicles.
Bashir Ffimbo, a mechanic in Kampala, said the operation was long overdue because many taxis operating in the city are not fit to be on the road.
“We have always waited for these taxi drivers to bring their vehicles for repair. Now the operation has forced them to bring their taxis to us,” Ffimbo said.
Another mechanic, Ivan Wassajja, thanked the traffic police for helping to boost their businesses.
“We had taken a long time without seeing most of our customers. But now they have all brought their vehicles for repair, which is good for us,” he said.
Denis Tumusime said no taxi was too damaged to be repaired, adding that mechanics have the skills to renovate vehicles and make them look as good as new.
Meanwhile, passengers continue to be left stranded by the roadside and in taxi parks as only a few taxis are currently operating. The shortage of taxis has also led to an increase in transport fares.
Daniel Nuwabine, the Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) spokesperson, urged passengers to use alternative means of transport, such as trains.
He said the Uganda Railway Corporation train operates throughout the day, is reliable and can carry more passengers.
