By Gilbert Akampa Kakurugu,
NATIONAL
In a move to ensure public safety, the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala, has announced the full closure of Karuma Bridge to all traffic starting Monday, September 23, 2024.The closure is necessary for major refurbishment works, which are expected to last three months.
The 61-year-old bridge, a vital link to northern Uganda, West Nile, and neighboring countries, has been experiencing structural concerns. Engineers identified critical defects in May, prompting a partial restriction on buses and trailers. The continued exposure to heavy traffic would have accelerated deterioration, making immediate intervention necessary.
The contractor will begin demolishing the concrete deck to allow for major restoration works. This exercise aims to enhance the bridge’s safety and functionality.
To minimize disruptions, motorists are advised to use the following alternative routes:
Kampala to Gulu/West Nile: Luwero – Kafu – Masindi – Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) to connect to Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo
Lira Route 1: Rwenkunye – Apac via Masindi Port Ferry.
Lira Route 2: Iganga – Nakalama – Tirinyi – Pallisa – Kumi – Soroti – Lira.
Conservationists initially raised concerns about diverting traffic through Murchison Falls National Park. However, UNRA assures that the alternative route, spanning about 20 kilometers, is fully paved and designed to minimize impact on wildlife movement and behavior.
While the current restoration works aim to preserve the existing bridge, plans are underway for constructing a new cable bridge, similar to the New River Nile Bridge in Jinja City, to replace the aging Karuma Bridge.
