The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced the closure of Karuma Bridge to all traffic starting from Monday, September 23, 2024. The closure, though expected to cause temporary inconveniences, is necessary for the bridge’s restoration and long-term safety.
During the renovation period, the bridge’s concrete deck will be demolished to make way for major rehabilitation works, a project that is expected to last three months.
Brief history
Spanning the mighty Nile River near Karuma Falls, the Karuma Bridge was constructed in 1963, making it one of the country’s oldest infrastructure marvels. At 61 years old, the bridge stands as a symbol of endurance, having served as a critical connection on the Kampala-Gulu Highway for over six decades.
This highway is a major artery that links northern Uganda with the rest of the country, facilitating trade, commerce, and travel between regions. However, the bridge’s age has taken its toll, and its condition now warrants a thorough restoration to ensure the continued safety and efficiency of the highway.
Impact of the Closure
The closure of the Karuma Bridge will undoubtedly have a significant impact on travelers, transporters, and local communities who rely on this essential route for daily movement. While the restoration project is necessary, it comes with the challenge of redirecting traffic to alternative routes, which could add additional hours to journeys and increased pressure on surrounding roads.
However, UNRA has outlined clear alternative routes to mitigate the disruption:
- For travelers from Kampala heading to Gulu or West Nile: Motorists are advised to use the Luwero-Kafu-Masindi-Paraa route (via Murchison Falls National Park), which connects to Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo. This will serve as the main diversion, allowing traffic to bypass the Karuma Bridge entirely.
- For travelers heading to Lira: There are two options available:
- Rwenkunye-Apac route via Masindi Port Ferry: This route allows travelers to cross the Nile River by ferry and connect to Apac before continuing to Lira.
- Iganga-Nakalama-Tirinyi-Pallisa-Kumi-Soroti-Lira route: This is a longer route but provides an alternative for those seeking a road-based connection.
UNRA encourages all motorists to plan ahead and make use of these routes during the closure period.
While the closure will undoubtedly inconvenience motorists, the long-term benefits far outweigh the short-term disruptions. The restoration project will not only extend the lifespan of Karuma Bridge but also enhance its structural integrity, ensuring that it can continue to serve Uganda for many more decades to come.
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