Karuma bridge to be closed on March 10 for high tech repairs
Works and Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala in a statement shared on Friday, February 28, 2025, said the bridge will be closed from March 10, 2025, to March 31, 2025.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced the closure of the Karuma Bridge to allow for the installation of expansion joints. (File photo)
Charles Etukuri
Senior Writer @New Vision
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The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced the closure of the Karuma Bridge to allow for the installation of expansion joints.
Works and Transport Minister Gen. Katumba Wamala in a statement shared on Friday, February 28, 2025, said the bridge will be closed from March 10, 2025, to March 31, 2025.
"Following last year’s closure for urgent repairs, Karuma Bridge was partially reopened on 20th December 2024 for only light vehicles to ease travel during the festive season," Gen. Katumba said.
He explained that "to complete these essential works, the Ministry of Works and Transport wishes to announce the installation of expansion joints on Karuma Bridge starting March 10th- March 31 2025 to ensure long-term stability and full traffic restoration."
Gen. Katumba stated that as a result, the bridge will be closed to all motor traffic.
"This period will also be used to install expansion joints on Ayago Bridge (Karuma—Olwiyo road) whose expansion joints have been damaged due to fatigue," he added.
The minister provided alternative routes stating that travellers from Kampala to Gulu or West Nile can go via Luwero – Kafu – Masindi – Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) – Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo (and vice versa).
Travellers from Kampala-Lira can go via Iganga – Nakalama – Tirinyi – Pallisa – Kumi –Soroti – Lira (and vice versa)
"Motorists to Lira can also use the Rwenkunye – Apac route via Masindi Port Ferry," Gen. Katumba stated.