The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced that work on the rehabilitation of Karuma Bridge is nearing completion, with a new concrete deck currently being constructed.
In a recent update shared on UNRA’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, the agency noted that the project has achieved major milestones and is moving quickly toward completion.
This renewed bridge is expected to play an important role in supporting traffic for both local and regional travel.
Eng. Lawrence Pario, who leads the bridges and structures division at UNRA, shared that the formwork installation—a critical part of the bridge’s construction—is now nearly 80% finished, marking a significant step forward.
“After demolishing the old concrete deck, we are now working on casting the new deck,” he explained. “Once we complete the formwork, we will install steel beams, followed by concrete casting. Our goal is to have the bridge open before Christmas.”
The project aims to improve the bridge’s durability and ensure it can withstand the demands of modern transportation.
The bridge, which serves as an essential link between northern Uganda and the rest of the country, is expected to support safer and more efficient travel for both passenger vehicles and freight, helping to enhance connectivity and economic development in the region.
Constructed in 1962, Karuma Bridge had exceeded its designed lifespan by more than a decade when serious structural issues emerged earlier this year.
The government subsequently restricted access for heavy vehicles like buses, trucks, and trailers in May, allowing engineers to begin initial repairs, which were expected to last three months.
However, the bridge was found to need a more comprehensive overhaul, requiring a nearly complete renovation.
This included strengthening the main structural supports and fully refurbishing the bridge’s surface. During the closure, traffic was redirected through Murchison Falls National Park.
UNRA’s commitment to completing the project efficiently and safely highlights its dedication to enhancing Uganda’s infrastructure.
For travelers and transporters, the reopening of Karuma Bridge, anticipated in time for the holiday season, will greatly improve travel convenience and safety.
The bridge’s completion will bring a much-anticipated boost to travel in the area, supporting both community connectivity and economic growth across northern Uganda and beyond.
