By Robert Segawa
The Uganda Police Force has disclosed that the Sunrise Hotel, located along Rashid Khamis Road, did not have a functional hydrant, a critical requirement for fire safety. This revelation comes after a preliminary investigation into the devastating fire that recently engulfed the hotel.
Police spokesperson Kituuma Rusoke addressed the press today at Naguru, confirming that the hotel had no hydrant, aside from one located next to the building. He expressed concern over the lack of safety measures, highlighting how the poorly constructed structure further complicated rescue efforts. “Even accessing the scene of the crime was a challenge due to the dangerous construction,” Rusoke said.
The tragic fire resulted in the loss of two lives, with more than 20 others injured. Rusoke also raised concerns about the absence of exit doors at the hotel, which left victims scrambling to climb up the building to escape. “The lack of proper exits made the situation worse,” he noted.
Rusoke also pointed out that the fire prevention and rescue vehicles were unable to access the scene due to obstructed routes, delaying critical help for those trapped inside. The fire, which started in the basement, spread rapidly due to the presence of highly flammable chemicals.
The spokesperson added that the nearby hydrant was completely inadequate, unable to even water plants, further highlighting the hotel’s disregard for fire safety protocols. “It’s alarming that the hydrant could not assist in any way during such a critical situation,” Rusoke remarked.
