The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has granted authorization for buses to use the Katonga Bridge along the Kampala-Masaka highway. This decision comes after a comprehensive assessment affirmed the bridge’s capability to withstand loads of up to 30 tonnes.
In a statement issued on Monday, UNRA outlined that buses and other light vehicles are now permitted to use the bridge, with strict adherence to precautionary measures in place.
“The existing bridge has now been opened to all buses, in addition to the light vehicles that were previously authorized to access this section under the precautionary measures that will be immediately implemented by the Contractor, China Communications Construction Company Ltd,” read a portion of the UNRA statement.
This development brings relief to buses that were forced to navigate a diversion route through the districts of Butambala, Gomba, Sembabule, Bukomansimbi, and Kalungu to reach Masaka after the original bridge was damaged by floods. However, it’s important to note that trailers will continue to be rerouted through Sembabule.
The Katonga Bridge sustained damage on May 11 due to flash floods, necessitating the temporary diversion route that added over 50 kilometers to the journey. In June, China Communications Company Ltd (CCCC) began constructing a temporary steel bridge at River Katonga, designed to accommodate all types of vehicles.
During a site visit in July, Works and Transport Minister Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala disclosed that the construction of a permanent replacement bridge at River Katonga would take longer than initially anticipated. Changes in the bridge’s design contributed to the delay, and discussions between the government and the contractor were ongoing regarding the project’s cost and timeline.
The government had initially promised that the construction of a raised permanent pre-stressed concrete bridge would take approximately a year and a few additional months. However, the revised design and its implications required further assessment and negotiations.
