Apac Traders Fear Disease Outbreak as Floodwater Threatens Market Sanitation.
Speaking to Q FM,traders said they fear the worsening sanitation situation could trigger the spread of waterborne diseases, especially if the stagnant water remains in the market for a prolonged period.
Regina Lalam Olal
By Hillary Opio Omara
APAC LANGO - Traders in Apac Municipality are raising alarm over the risk of a disease outbreak following the accumulation of stagnant water and waste in and around the main market.
Speaking to Q FM,traders said they fear the worsening sanitation situation could trigger the spread of waterborne diseases, especially if the stagnant water remains in the market for a prolonged period.
They said they have been spending their own money to clean the market,while also paying a UGX 2,000 fee for everyday as Taxes, but questioned why the municipal authorities have not taken stronger action to address the problem. Caroline Opio Mogo,a market vendors’ representative,said traders have repeatedly raised the sanitation concerns with
Apac Municipal authorities,but little action has been taken to resolve the problem. Caroline said the prolonged accumulation of waste and stagnant water could expose both traders and customers to serious health risks.
Meanwhile,Sophia Omara Aporo,another trader,described the situation as a growing health threat,saying the stagnant water has remained in the market for several days. She called on the municipal authorities to ensure that drainage channels are cleared at least twice a week to prevent water from accumulating and reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.
Following complaints from traders and members of the public,Dr.David Okeng,who oversees health-related concerns in Apac Municipality,acknowledged the situation and pledged to ensure that action is taken immediately.
Dr.Okeng attributed the problem that a vehicle used for collecting waste was broken down and Municipal leaders are repairing it.
Apac Municipality Mayor Bonny McLean Odongo Awada said the affected markets are located in Atik Division and that municipal authorities are working to ensure drainage channels are opened and blocked waterways cleared to improve sanitation.
However,a Q FM investigation found that an unidentified individual had reportedly constructed a house along a drainage channel,obstructing the free flow of water and contributing to the flooding and stagnant water in the area.
Traders are now urging Apac Municipal authorities to move swiftly to clear the drainage system,remove accumulated waste and restore proper sanitation before the situation develops into a public health crisis.
