Construction of a fuel station in Kamonyi District has been halted after concerns were raised over the safety of its location on a raised mound of soil overlooking nearby residential houses.
The station, located along the Kigali–Muhanga road near Runda Trading Centre in Runda Sector, had been under construction on an elevated site created by piling up soil to form a large embankment.
Residents living near the site expressed concern that the elevated structure could expose their homes to risks, including soil erosion and water runoff, especially during heavy rains.
They also questioned the safety of placing a fuel station on such terrain, citing possible risks from vehicles using the facility.
Following the concerns, Kamonyi District authorities inspected the site and asked the developer to provide additional explanations and make necessary adjustments before construction could continue.
Kamonyi District Mayor Dr Sylvere Nahayo said the district had requested the contractor to demonstrate how the project would be implemented safely and without putting residents at risk.
“We asked them to provide details and explain how the project will be carried out. When properly explained, you can see measures that can prevent risks to residents. However, there are still some issues they need to correct before the project proceeds,” Nahayo said.
The intervention came after public concerns grew over the construction site, which sits above homes located only a few metres downhill.
On Tuesday, the steel structures that had already been installed for the fuel station were removed from the site, while construction equipment and vehicles remained at the location.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the removal marks a permanent suspension of the project or whether it is part of corrective measures required before construction resumes.
