KAMPALA, UGANDA – The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced the closure of the Karuma Bridge to heavy traffic effective Monday, May 6, 2024, due to deteriorating conditions. The bridge, which spans the Victoria Nile, will be closed to all lorries, trailers, and buses, while passenger vehicles carrying up to 28 passengers will still be allowed to use the bridge.
According to UNRA, the closure is necessary to facilitate urgent repairs to the bridge’s concrete deck, which has deteriorated significantly, particularly on the Kampala approach lane. The authority has commenced the process of identifying a competent contractor to undertake the restoration of the bridge structure, which is expected to take approximately three months.
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In the interim, motorists are advised to use alternative routes, including Luwero-Kafu-Masindi-Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) to connect to Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo, and Iganga-Nakalama-Tirinyi-Pallisa-Kumi-Soroti-Lira for those heading to Lira.
The Government of Uganda is also fast-tracking the process to secure funding for the construction of a new bridge at Karuma as a long-term solution.
UNRA management has apologized for the inconvenience caused by the closure and urged road users to cooperate with the authority to ensure everyone’s safety.
This development comes as a precautionary measure to prevent any potential disasters and ensure the safety of road users. The public is advised to plan their journeys accordingly and use the alternative routes provided.
