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Challenges in firefighting infrastructure and accessibility hindered efforts to contain the blaze quickly
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By Our Reporter
Kampala
A devastating fire broke out at Sunrise Hotel on March 5, 2025, claiming the lives of two people and leaving 24 others injured, the Uganda Police Force has confirmed.
The inferno, which spread rapidly through the premises, saw emergency responders and members of the public rushing to rescue trapped guests and staff. However, challenges in firefighting infrastructure and accessibility hindered efforts to contain the blaze quickly.
According to Police Spokesperson Michael Kituuma, several critical issues contributed to the severity of the incident, raising concerns about fire safety standards in commercial establishments.
Key issues highlighted by Police
Lack of Emergency Firefighting Equipment – The hotel’s water hydrant was non-functional, significantly delaying firefighting efforts. Additionally, the presence of highly flammable materials inside the building exacerbated the situation, underscoring the need for better fire safety investments.
Limited Emergency Access – Police fire trucks struggled to access the building, making it difficult for firefighters to deploy ladders and reach upper floors where some guests were trapped.
Poor Guest Registration – Authorities noted that the hotel did not maintain accurate records of its guests, complicating efforts to account for everyone during and after the fire.
Looting During Rescue Efforts – While members of the public played a crucial role in the rescue, some individuals took advantage of the chaos to steal property from the scene, an act police strongly condemned.
Police to engage businesses on fire safety
Following the tragedy, the Uganda Police Force has announced plans to engage hotel owners and other businesses in developing improved fire prevention and emergency response strategies.
“This incident highlights the urgent need for commercial establishments to invest in proper fire safety measures, maintain accessible emergency exits, and ensure clear guest registration records,” Kituuma stated.
Authorities have launched an investigation into the cause of the fire, as well as the hotel's compliance with fire safety regulations. Meanwhile, survivors are receiving treatment at various medical facilities, with some reported to be in critical condition.
The police have urged the public and businesses to take fire safety seriously, warning that failure to comply with safety standards could lead to legal consequences.
Torch Media Africa
