The Minister of Works and Transport, General Katumba Wamala, has announced the closure of Karuma Bridge to all traffic starting Monday, September 23, 2024.
According to the minister, the move will enable the contractor to immediately start the demolition of the concrete deck to allow major restoration works, an exercise expected to last three months. The bridge, constructed in 1963, has outlived its lifespan.
The bridge, which was partially closed to buses and trailers in May this year, is a major gateway to northern Uganda, West Nile, and the neighbouring countries of the Democratic Republic of Congo and South Sudan.
UNRA spokesperson Allan Ssempebwa says motorists will be diverted through three routes. Motorists from Kampala heading to Gulu/West Nile are advised to use the Luwero—Kafu—Masindi—Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) route to connect to Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo, and vice versa for motorists from Gulu/West Nile.
Motorists to Lira can use the Rwenkunye—Apac route via Masindi Port Ferry. Motorists to Lira can also use the Iganga—Nakalama—Tirinyi—Pallisa—Kumi—Soroti—Lira route, and vice versa.
