Ugandans have taken to social media to express their disappointment and amusement over the architectural plans unveiled by Uganda Railways Corporation for upcoming train stations, describing them as “ridiculous” and “below par.”
The backlash emerged after Uganda Railways shared rendered images of the proposed station designs on their official handle, inviting comments and feedback.
One Twitter user expressed profound disappointment, likening the designs to a “roadside boda boda stage kiosk” lacking the modern functionality expected of railway terminals.
Critics highlighted several perceived flaws in the designs:
- Outdated Design Choices: Users criticized the use of clay tiles, which they deemed reminiscent of the 1980s, instead of more contemporary and sustainable materials like corrugated iron with integrated solar panels.
- Lack of Functional Features: Concerns were raised about the absence of seating areas for passengers, designated cargo bays, multiple platforms, and covered walkways essential for modern transport hubs.
- Integration of Solar Technology: Critics questioned why solar panels weren’t incorporated into the design, both as a sustainable energy source and for shading covered walkways.
- Passenger Flow and Separation: There were queries about how arriving and departing passengers would be segregated efficiently within the station layout.
- Ventilation and Design Aesthetics: Users pointed out a lack of consideration for natural ventilation in the station’s architectural design, particularly in relation to window placement and airflow.
Comparisons were drawn to Tanzania’s recent unveiling of a modern electric rail system, featuring state-of-the-art infrastructure resembling a modern airport hub. This contrast highlighted perceived shortcomings in Uganda’s proposed railway station designs.
