The Ministry of Works and Transport is considering another temporary closure of Karuma Bridge to complete critical repairs on the vital structure connecting northern Uganda to the central region.
Appearing before Parliament’s Budget Committee on Wednesday, Works and Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala disclosed that an assessment is underway to determine whether a full closure is necessary to complete the remaining work. He was summoned to provide updates on the transition following the rationalization of the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) and the Uganda Road Fund (URF).
“Our technical team is evaluating whether the expansion joints can be fixed while vehicles continue crossing or if a complete closure for a few days will be required. Once a decision is made, we will communicate accordingly,” said Gen. Katumba.
Karuma Bridge, a crucial transport artery for northern Uganda, was reopened to light vehicles on December 20, 2024, following a three-month closure for initial repairs. During that period, traffic was rerouted through alternative routes, including the challenging passage through Murchison Falls National Park.
Gen. Katumba stated that the final phase of repairs, particularly the installation of imported expansion joints, is essential to allow heavy trucks to resume using the bridge.
“We reopened the bridge for light vehicles, but heavy trucks are still restricted. Now that the necessary materials, specifically the expansion joints, have been imported, we need to install them to ensure the bridge can handle all types of vehicles,” he explained.
To minimize disruptions, the Minister assured Parliament that if a second closure is necessary, it will not coincide with the ongoing school term opening period to avoid inconveniencing parents and guardians transporting students back to school.
“I have instructed my team to avoid any closure during this critical period. Once the school term opening period concludes, we will reassess and communicate the final decision,” Gen. Katumba stated.
The school term opening period is expected to conclude by the end of February, with Senior Five students being the last group to report.
The initial closure of Karuma Bridge had significant economic implications for northern Uganda, with businesses experiencing reduced activity. However, the government has reassured the public of its commitment to swift repairs and has unveiled plans for a new bridge to address long-term connectivity challenges.
