(Tororo) – Hundreds of travelers were left stranded on Wednesday after heavy rains washed away the temporary diversion at Rubongi Bridge. The diversion was a vital connection along the Nagongera-Busolwe road, linking the districts of Butaleja and Tororo.
The diversion had been constructed in 2022 by China Railways to facilitate the ongoing replacement of the main Rubongi Bridge. However, the project has remained incomplete since the contractor abandoned the site, citing government non-payment.
Bridge Diversion Collapse: Key Details
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Rubongi Bridge, Nagongera-Busolwe Road |
| Cause of Collapse | Heavy rains and flooding |
| Year of Diversion Setup | 2022 |
| Status of Main Bridge | Incomplete; contractor withdrew |
| Affected Travelers | Hundreds, including transporters of goods |
The diversion’s collapse has rendered the route impassable for vehicles, leaving only pedestrians and cyclists able to navigate the area. Motorists transporting essential goods were forced to either abandon their journeys or take longer, costlier detours.
Residents and local leaders expressed their frustration with the government’s inaction. They argued that the road, frequently used by Members of Parliament and government officials from Tororo district, should have been prioritized.
“This road is a lifeline for our people, and it is shameful that it has been neglected for so long,” said district councillor Noah Okumu.
Local leaders called on the government to pay the contractor and ensure that construction resumes without delay.
Rubongi Bridge and the Nagongera-Busolwe road have been the subject of repeated promises by the government, including a commitment from President Yoweri Museveni to upgrade the road, citing its importance to the region’s socio-economic development.
However, residents say little progress has been made, leaving them to deal with the consequences of deteriorating infrastructure.
The ongoing situation has also raised concerns among local politicians, who fear it may impact their standing ahead of the 2026 general elections.
“We are in a very difficult position,” said one local politician anonymously. “How do we face our constituents when we have no answers about why this road is still in such poor condition?”
The collapse of the diversion has further strained daily life for residents, with delayed transportation of goods and reduced access to essential services.
“We cannot keep suffering like this while our leaders sit in comfort,” said James Okello, a frustrated traveler who was stranded at the bridge.
Residents have appealed to President Museveni to personally intervene and fulfill his promise of completing the bridge and upgrading the road.
