The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced the temporary closure of Karuma Bridge on the Kampala–Gulu highway for critical maintenance work.
The bridge, which was partially reopened in December 2024 for light vehicles following urgent repairs, will undergo the installation of expansion joints to ensure its long-term stability and full traffic restoration.
According to an official statement released on February 28, the bridge will be completely closed to all traffic from March 10 to March 31, 2025.
The expansion joint installation is aimed at improving the structural integrity of the bridge, which is a crucial transport link between central and northern Uganda.
The ministry also confirmed that similar work will be carried out on Ayago Bridge, located on the Karuma–Olwiyo road.
The expansion joints on Ayago Bridge have suffered significant wear due to fatigue, necessitating urgent replacement.
Alternative Routes for Motorists
With the impending closure, the government has provided alternative routes for travelers heading between Kampala, Gulu, Lira, and West Nile.
- For travelers from Kampala to Gulu/West Nile, the recommended route is via Luwero – Kafu – Masindi – Paraa (Murchison Falls National Park) – Pakwach or Gulu via Olwiyo.
- For those traveling from Kampala to Lira, the alternative route passes through Iganga – Nakalama – Tirinyi – Pallisa – Kumi – Soroti – Lira.
- Motorists traveling to Lira can also use the Rwenkunye – Apac route via Masindi Port Ferry.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has advised all road users to plan their journeys accordingly and factor in potential delays caused by the diversions.
Impact on Transport and Economic Activities
The temporary closure of Karuma Bridge is expected to have a significant impact on transportation, especially for businesses and travelers who rely on the highway for trade and movement between northern Uganda and the rest of the country.
Karuma Bridge serves as a vital link for goods transported between Kampala, Gulu, and neighboring regions.
The planned maintenance is expected to enhance the safety and durability of the bridge, preventing further disruptions in the future.
Background: Previous Repairs on Karuma Bridge
In 2024, the bridge underwent urgent repairs following concerns over structural weaknesses.
To ease movement during the festive season, it was partially reopened on December 20, 2024, allowing only light vehicles.
However, the ministry noted that full repairs, including the replacement of worn-out expansion joints, were still necessary to restore the bridge’s full functionality.
Expansion joints play a crucial role in bridges, allowing them to expand and contract due to temperature changes and traffic loads.
Without proper maintenance, damaged joints can lead to further deterioration, increasing the risk of structural failure.
Public Response and Safety Measures
The announcement has received mixed reactions from the public, with many acknowledging the need for repairs but expressing concerns over the economic impact of the closure.
Some business owners and transport operators have raised worries about increased fuel costs and longer travel times due to the detours.
Others have called on the government to expedite the work to minimize disruption.
The Ministry of Works and Transport has assured the public that it will work efficiently to complete the project within the scheduled time frame.
Motorists are urged to exercise caution on the alternative routes and adhere to traffic guidelines to ensure safety during the closure period.
For further updates, travelers are encouraged to follow the Ministry’s official communication channels, including its website and social media platforms.
