Wakiso, Uganda | In the early hours of Saturday, May 3, 2025, tragedy struck on the Kampala Southern Bypass Highway as Rajiv Ruparelia, a prominent businessman and Managing Director of the Ruparelia Group, lost his life in a devastating car accident at the Busabala Flyover. The incident occurred around 1:54 AM, when Ruparelia's Nissan GTR, a high-performance sports car known for its incredible speed and power, collided with temporary pavement barriers and burst into flames.
According to the police, the crash happened at the traffic lights of the Busabala Flyover, located in Makindye-Ssabagabo, Wakiso District. Traffic Police Spokesperson Michael Kananura confirmed the details, stating, "The Police at Kajjansi have registered a single fatal crash. Preliminary investigations indicate that the driver lost control of the vehicle after colliding with temporary pavements installed at the roundabout section of the flyover." The impact caused the vehicle to overturn, leading to the instant death of the driver, identified as Mr. Rajiv Ruparelia.
The Nissan GTR, with registration number UAT 638L, is often referred to as "Godzilla" in automotive circles. This twin-turbocharged 3.8-litre V6 beast can produce up to 565 horsepower and 633 Nm of torque, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.9 seconds, with a top speed exceeding 310 km/h. The GTR is known for its advanced all-wheel drive and multi-mode adjustable suspension, designed for high-speed stability. However, its power demands a high level of caution from the driver, particularly on urban roads where conditions can be unpredictable.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the vehicle lost control after hitting the temporary pavement structures that had been set up due to ongoing construction. Concerns have previously been raised by road users regarding the visibility and signage in the area, which may have contributed to the tragedy.
Rajiv Ruparelia, who was 35 years old, was not only a successful businessman but also a devoted family man and motorsport enthusiast. Just hours before the accident, he shared a heartfelt photo of his young daughter on social media, which has resonated deeply with his family, friends, and followers. Born on January 2, 1990, Rajiv played a pivotal role in expanding the Ruparelia Group, a vast conglomerate with interests in real estate, education, banking, and hospitality. His leadership was marked by a commitment to sustainability and community engagement through the Ruparelia Foundation.
The news of his passing has sent shockwaves through Uganda's business community and beyond. Victoria University, where he was actively involved, expressed condolences, highlighting his impact on the next generation of Ugandan entrepreneurs. In a statement, the family noted, "The family of Sudhir and Jyotsna Ruparelia would like to inform all family, friends, and in-laws of the sudden death of their son, Rajiv Ruparelia. He is survived by a three-year-old daughter. May his soul rest in peace." Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced soon.
This tragic event has also highlighted the alarming rate of road accidents in Uganda. According to the Uganda Police Annual Crime Report, 5,144 people died in road crashes in 2024 alone, averaging 14 deaths per day. High-speed collisions, infrastructure limitations, and poor road design have all contributed to this troubling statistic. The crash that claimed Rajiv's life underscores the urgent need for improved road safety measures.
As investigations into the accident continue, police have assured the public that they will provide updates as more information becomes available. The community mourns the loss of Rajiv Ruparelia, a figure who embodied the spirit of entrepreneurship and philanthropy in Uganda.
