KAMPALA, Sept. 9, (Xinhua/GNA) — Kampala, Uganda’s capital, has successfully held its second edition of the Car-Free Day event, to promote sustainable transport and underscore the need for a sustainable urban environment.
The streets of Nile Avenue, Speke Road, Shimoni Road and Buganda Road were closed off for cars and witnessed an extraordinary transformation, said Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) in a statement issued here late Saturday. “Instead of the usual traffic jams and the honking horns, the city’s streets were filled with laughter, cycling enthusiasts, children playing, and the joyful bustle of a community united for a cause,” said KCCA in a statement.
People participated in various events, from bicycle races to walkathons, while street artists turned empty roads into colorful canvases, said the authority. “Families enjoyed an array of street games and exhibitions. Children laughed and played in a city that had, for once, become their playground,” said KCCA.
Among the unique activities was a yoga session, offering a moment of calm amid the lively energy. People gathered on mats, breathing in the fresh air, a stark contrast to the usual fumes from cars and motorbikes.
Justus Akankwasa, KCCA’s director of Engineering and Technical Services, said the introduction of the Car-Free Day aims at addressing Kampala’s transportation and environmental challenges by encouraging residents to adopt bicycles, walking, and other eco-friendly modes of transport.”This initiative is part of our broader efforts to improve air quality and encourage active mobility,” said Akankwasa, quoted in the statement. “By reducing our reliance on motor vehicles, we are not only benefiting the environment but also promoting healthier lifestyles,” said Akankwasa.
Kampala, like many rapidly urbanizing cities, faces a growing challenge in balancing development with environmental sustainability. The city’s increasing traffic congestion has resulted in poor air quality, with vehicle emissions contributing significantly to pollution levels. “It’s refreshing to see Kampala this way,” said Sharon Kabatesi, a participant in the walk race. “It feels like the city belongs to us, not just the cars. I hope we can have more days like this where we put our health and the environment first.” According to KCCA, plans are underway to create more dedicated bicycle lanes, and pedestrian walkways, and improve the city’s infrastructure to support non-motorized transport for a more sustainable, healthier city for its residents.
On March 26, 2023, Uganda hosted its first Car-Free Day in Kampala, during which certain parts of the city were closed to cars.
GNA