The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced plans to install expansion joints on Karuma Bridge along the Kampala-Gulu highway and Ayago Bridge on the Karuma-Olwiyo Road.
The government reopened the partially rehabilitated bridge for light vehicles on December 20, 2024, during the holiday season. The authorities are now preparing to complete necessary works to ensure the bridge’s long-term stability and full traffic restoration.
The installation of expansion joints is scheduled to take place between March 10 and March 31, 2025. As a result, the Karuma Bridge will be completely closed to all traffic during this time, according to a statement from Minister of Works and Transport Gen Katumba Wamala.
Simultaneously, the same period will be used to install expansion joints on the Ayago Bridge, which has experienced structural fatigue over time.
To reduce inconvenience, the Ministry has advised motorists to take several alternative routes, including Kampala-Gulu/West Nile via Luwero-Kafu-Masindi-Paraa via Murchison Falls National Park Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo.
Meanwhile Kampala – Lira via Iganga – Nakalama – Tirinyi – Pallisa – Kumi – Soroti – Lira.
Similarly, motorists to Lira have been advised to use the Rwenkunye – Apac route via Masindi Port Ferry.
Gen. Edward Katumba Wamala has apologized for any inconvenience and has asked for public cooperation during this critical maintenance period.
The closure of Karuma Bridge may result in an increase in bus fares from Kampala to Lira-Gulu and other destinations.
For example, most buses from Kampala to Lira cost shs30,000 and vice versa.
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