The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has closed Karuma bridge to heavy traffic effective May 6, 2024, due to the deteriorating conditions.
“UNRA wishes to inform road users that following the ongoing condition assessment of the Karuma Bridge, it has been established that some elements of the bridge structure (the concrete deck) have deteriorated particularly on the Kampala approach lane. The continued exposure of the bridge to the ever-increasing heavy traffic is likely to accelerate its deterioration and serviceability, if not addressed in time,” the authority said in a statement.
UNRA revealed that only passenger vehicles carrying up to 28 passengers will be allowed to use the bridge.
“Given the above, Karuma Bridge will be closed to all lorries, trailers and buses from Monday 06th May 2024. Only passenger vehicles carrying up to 28 passengers will be allowed to use the bridge,”
“We anticipate that this intervention will be completed in 03 months,” the statement read, adding that UNRA has commenced the process of identifying a competent contractor who will undertake the restoration of the bridge structure as quickly as possible.
In the interim, Motorists from Kampala heading to Gulu/West Nile are advised to use Luwero — Kafu – Masindi – Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) to connect to Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo and vice versa from motorists from Gulu/West Nile.
For motorists to Lira can also use Iganga – Tirinyi – Pallisa – Kumi – Soroti – Lira and vice versa.
UNRA revealed that government is currently fast-tracking the process to secure funding for the construction of a new bridge at Karuma as a long-term solution.