Government to Reconstruct Karuma Bridge

The Minister of Works and Transport, Gen Katumba Wamala has revealed government plans to redesign and reconstruct Karuma Bridge on Kampala-Gulu Highway.

According to the minister, the bridge that was built in 1963 has outlived its usefulness and thus, calls for an overhaul.

His response was triggered by Hon. Ojara Mapenduzi (Bardege-Layibi Division) who during Thursday plenary raised concerns about the increasing road accidents on Karuma Bridge where motor vehicles are plunging into the R.Nile and claiming lives.

Gen Wamala said that works are in the pipeline to rehabilitate Karuma Bridge provided funds are availed soon.

“We are in discussions with some development partners to redesign and reposition this bridge to meet the challenges of the increasing traffic on that road,” Gen Wamala said.

On Wednesday, a truck registration number UAT 113F veered off Karuma bridge and hit the weak guard rails before plunging into the river Nile.