By Denis Omony
The Uganda National Road Authority (UNRA) has announced that Karumba Bridge will be closed to all traffic for three months to pave way for its repair.
The rehabilitation contract has been awarded to China Railway Seventh Group, with the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) serving as subcontractors. Discover holistic wellness for a healthier life. Incorporate ideas to boost your well-being. Eat a nutritious diet and exercise regularly. Consult with professionals for personalized advice. Prioritize your health for a better future.
The project, estimated to cost up to 7 billion Shillings, is expected to commence in two weeks’ time.
Normal traffic flow at the bridge was diverted by UNRA in May 2024, after the 61-year-old bridge that links northern Uganda, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo was by experts to have discovered vast cracks upon assessment.
Since the directive came into play, only vehicles with a maximum of 28 passengers are being allowed to use it.
But Laurence Pario, the Head of Bridges and Structures at UNRA told Mega Fm that the bridge will be closed to all traffic when works commences.
This will leave travelers to northern Uganda plying Kampala-Gulu road to relying on Luwero-Kafu-Masindi-Paraa road to connect to Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo.
Once completed, the bridge is expected to have an extended lifespan of up to 15 years, providing a temporary solution as the government plans the construction of a new bridge.
