UNRA Clears Buses to Resume Crossing Katonga Bridge

KAMPALA – The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has granted approval for buses to resume using the Katonga Bridge along the Kampala-Masaka road.

This decision comes after the bridge was severely damaged by floods in May, causing a disruption on the critical Kampala-Masaka highway in central Uganda when the River Katonga overflowed its banks.

As a consequence, travelers commuting from Kampala to Masaka had to divert their route, opting for the Mpigi-Butambala-Ssembabule road as an alternative.

The Kampala-Masaka highway ranks among the busiest roadways in the country, accommodating an estimated average daily traffic volume of over 30,000 vehicles. This road serves as a vital gateway to neighboring countries such as Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, facilitating the movement of significant cargo both to and from these nations.

UNRA has diligently monitored and recently assessed the condition of the existing Katonga Bridge. Their evaluation determined that the bridge can safely support loads of up to 30 tonnes.

Consequently, UNRA has now permitted all buses to utilize the bridge, in addition to the light vehicles that were previously allowed, provided that precautionary measures recommended by the contractor, China Communications Construction Company Ltd, are strictly adhered to during this period.

UNRA emphasized the importance of all authorized traffic adhering to the posted signage and traffic guidelines when approaching the bridge, ensuring a safe passage for everyone. They stressed the need for strict compliance with these safety measures.

Currently, Phase II of the restoration works at the Katonga Bridge, which involves the construction of a steel bridge, is underway. Once completed, this phase will enable the full restoration of traffic flow at the Katonga section before permanent reconstruction efforts can commence.