The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has provided a notice about the state of Karuma Bridge in Northern Uganda. They have announced that starting from Monday, May 6, 2024, the bridge will not be accessible to trucks, trailers, and buses.
UNRA’s assessment of the bridge’s condition revealed that certain parts of its structure, specifically the concrete deck, have worn down, particularly on the lane leading to Kampala.
According to the traffic advisory released by UNRA, the heavy traffic passing through the bridge continuously might speed up its deterioration and affect its functionality if not dealt with promptly.
UNRA has stated that urgent action is necessary for the bridge and has begun the process of finding a capable contractor who can repair the bridge as soon as possible.
The advisory also states that only small passenger vehicles, carrying up to 28 passengers, will be permitted to cross the bridge.
UNRA estimates that the repair work will be finished within three months.
Alternative Routes:
UNRA has provided alternative routes for all road users:
- Motorists traveling from Kampala to Gulu/West Nile should consider using Luwero – Kafu – Masindi – Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) to reach Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo. Similarly, those traveling from Gulu/West Nile to Kampala should follow this route in reverse.
- Those heading to Lira can opt for the Iganga – Nakalama – Tirinyi – Pallisa – Kumi – Soroti – Lira route, and vice versa.
Construction of a New Bridge:
UNRA has mentioned that as a long-term solution, the government is expediting the process of securing funds for building a new bridge at Karuma.
