Soroti City authorities have officially closed the city mortuary following complaints from residents about its deteriorating condition and the health risks it poses.
The closure comes after growing concerns over the unbearable stench of decomposing bodies that has begun to affect the Nakatunya ward and surrounding neighborhoods.
The mortuary, originally established to provide free services for handling deceased bodies, has suffered years of neglect.
Residents say it has become a dumping ground for accident victims, casualties of mob justice, and bodies transported from Soroti Regional Referral Hospital.
The facility, which has not seen major upgrades in over 30 years, is plagued by broken glass windows, damaged doors, and a lack of essential equipment for the dignified management of the deceased.
Overgrown vegetation surrounds the building, and bodies are sometimes left on the floor, accelerating decomposition.
Dr. Alfred Anyonga, Soroti City Health Officer says they have written to Soroti District because many of the dead bodies that come from the district are brought there and left to decompose.
Anyonga adds that the burial site will remain operational, but they have closed the mortuary to explore ways of improving and expanding it.
By URN
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