The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced plans to construct a temporary bridge at Pakwach to ensure the uninterrupted flow of traffic to northern Uganda and neighboring countries. This decision comes in response to growing concerns about the deteriorating condition of the existing Pakwach Bridge, which dates back to 1959.
Ms. Allen Kagina, the executive director of UNRA, confirmed that the Cabinet has approved an emergency procurement process for the new temporary bridge. During her inspection of the Pakwach Bridge, also known as the Albert Nile Bridge, she stated, “Cabinet has approved an emergency procurement for the temporary bridge in Pakwach. This will allow traffic to move seamlessly to northern Uganda and beyond, as the government is prioritizing connectivity to ensure that business and social activities are not disrupted.”
While the immediate focus is on building the temporary bridge, Ms. Kagina emphasized that there is a long-term plan for the development of permanent bridges in both Pakwach and Karuma. She acknowledged the urgency of replacing the existing structure, which has raised significant concerns regarding its ability to support the increasing traffic demands. “The existing Pakwach Bridge is an old structure, and it urgently needs to be replaced. As soon as traffic is restored with the temporary bridge, we will begin working on the design and construction of new, permanent bridges at Pakwach. These permanent bridges will be higher and more durable than the temporary ones currently under construction,” she explained.
The Pakwach and Karuma bridges are crucial for facilitating trade with South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, two of Uganda’s major trading partners. Ms. Kagina highlighted the importance of maintaining connectivity to avoid disruptions in trade. “The idea is to keep traffic moving so that we do not affect the trade we have with South Sudan and Congo. Any disruption in connectivity could severely impact trade and delay the movement of goods, which is something we cannot afford,” she said.
Mr. Cosmas Byaruhanga, the chairperson of Masindi District, expressed optimism about the temporary solutions, noting that they would provide relief to the increasing number of vehicles using the Pakwach route daily. This route is particularly important for heavy trucks transporting goods to and from northern Uganda and neighboring nations.
The existing Pakwach Bridge serves as a vital transit point for goods destined for the West Nile sub-region and beyond, particularly to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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