The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has authorized buses to use Katonga Bridge along the Kampala-Masaka highway after an assessment found that the bridge can withstand up to 30 tonnes.
The bridge had been closed to all vehicles since May 11, 2023, after it was damaged by flash floods. A temporary bridge was built to allow pedestrians and light vehicles to cross, but buses were still forced to use a diversion route.
UNRA said that buses and other light vehicles can now use the bridge, but they must follow strict precautionary measures. These include driving at a reduced speed and avoiding sudden braking.
Cargo trucks will continue to use the diversion route until the construction of a permanent steel bridge is completed. UNRA said that this is expected to take about two months.
The reopening of Katonga Bridge is a major relief for motorists who have been using the diversion route. The diversion route is more than 50 kilometers longer, which means that buses have to spend more time and fuel to travel between Kampala and Masaka.
UNRA apologized for any inconvenience caused by the closure of the bridge. The authority said that the essential works on the bridge are being undertaken to improve the safety of the road network.
https://twitter.com/UNRA_UG/status/1698764412432064611?s=20
