The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has initiated repairs on the Karuma Bridge, entrusting the task to the Uganda People’s Defense Forces (UPDF) Engineering Brigade and China Railway Seventh Group. This joint venture aims to swiftly rehabilitate the bridge for interim use, following recent closures due to structural concerns.
UNRA confirmed that the 61-year-old bridge’s repair is crucial for restoring normal traffic in the short term. Simultaneously, the government is finalizing plans to engage a contractor for the construction of a new bridge at Karuma, a vital link connecting the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, the West Nile region, and Northern Uganda with the rest of the country.
“The government is advancing plans to replace the aging bridge at Karuma with a new, modern structure,” UNRA stated, underscoring its commitment to enhancing transportation infrastructure across strategic locations. Future projects include new bridges at Pakwach, Masindi Port, and Laropi, aiming to bolster regional and international trade routes.
In response to the closure announced in May, which redirected traffic through alternative routes due to safety concerns, UNRA emphasized the temporary nature of the repairs and the imperative to ensure safe passage, particularly for passenger vehicles.
The collaborative efforts between UPDF and China Railway Seventh Group reflect a concerted approach to expedite repairs and mitigate disruptions, signaling a pivotal step towards enhancing Uganda’s transportation network.
