World Journal of Engineering Research and Technology

Joel Mubiru*, Lawrence Muhwezi and Rodgers. B. Mugume

ABSTRACT

With the escalating urbanisation and motorization rate of Kampala City, pedestrians have encountered a number of challenges which include; high levels of traffic mix between motorists, cyclists and pedestrians; aggressive way of driving by some motorists; enormous obstructions along walkways like street vendors in addition to poor and dangerous pedestrian infrastructure. Furthermore, the road user?s incompliance with the traffic rules and regulations like driving beyond speed limit has made walking unattractive. The study aimed at assessing the state of non-motorized transport infrastructure in Kampala City, Uganda and come up with the necessary interventions for its improvement. In this research, an assessment of the current physical state of pedestrian infrastructure facilities was conducted and the level of accessibility, safety and environmental dimensions of the Non ? Motorised Transport (NMT) infrastructure against pedestrians, NMT policy formulators, regulators, funders and promoters was evaluated. Data was collected by use of questionnaires which were prepared differently for each group specifically to test whether these groups were aware of the challenges the pedestrians face while using the NMT facilities. Questionnaires for the pedestrians were multiple choice questions while the ones for the policy maker`s group were open ended. The research focused on 13 roads with in the central division of Kampala City targeting 135 pedestrians and 50 other respondents who included NMT policy formulators, implementers, funders and promoters. The primary data was sourced by administering questionnaires, interviewing of key informants and use of observation checklist. Secondary data was collected through reviewing published materials, government reports, print media and internet sources. It was revealed that all walkways and crossing facilities had no consideration for people with limited mobility like wheel chair users and the visually impaired. The research also observed that NMT projects developments had not been incorporated into the land use plans. An integrated planning, upgrading and reconstruction of all walkways and crossing facilities were suggested as remedies as well as allocation of more funds to NMT projects, massive public awareness campaigns about the law and strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations.

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