(Pakwach) – The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has announced its plan to build a temporary jetty bridge at Pakwach to address the deteriorating state of the Pakwach Bridge. The current bridge, constructed in the late 1950s, is showing clear signs of age and damage, with concerns over its ability to continue supporting traffic.
During an inspection on October 10, UNRA Executive Director Allen Kagina emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that construction of the temporary structure will begin as soon as the designs are ready. This measure aims to ensure that the West Nile region remains connected to the rest of Uganda, as well as neighboring countries like South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Pakwach Bridge has been facing challenges from floating vegetation, which has weakened the structure. Although UNRA has deployed a dredger to clear the river, the problem persists. The government, recognizing the strategic importance of the bridge, has prioritized its repair, with plans for a permanent bridge also in progress.
The temporary jetty will allow traffic to continue flowing while UNRA works on a more long-term solution. Similar to the temporary steel bridge installed at Katonga, this jetty will accommodate all types of traffic, but UNRA may need to limit use of the old bridge for safety reasons.
Pakwach Bridge Details | Information |
---|---|
Year of construction | 1959 |
Structural problems | Floating vegetation, stress, fatigue |
Temporary solution | Jetty bridge |
Long-term solution | Permanent higher, stronger bridge planned |
The Pakwach Bridge plays a critical role in transporting goods and people between Uganda and its trading partners in West Nile, South Sudan, and the DRC. Disruptions to this route could have serious economic impacts, particularly on trade. Local leaders have expressed their concerns about the current state of the bridge and urged UNRA to address the issue as soon as possible.
Meanwhile, dredging operations remain ongoing to protect the bridge from further damage caused by the dense floating vegetation that has been clogging the river for several months. In May 2024, a floating island covering over seven acres blocked a significant portion of the bridge, which required emergency dredging to prevent further deterioration.
UNRA spokesperson Allan Ssempebwa reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to resolving the issue swiftly. He emphasized the importance of acting before a disaster occurs, stating that the visible signs of damage and stress on the bridge have made immediate action necessary.
In addition to the temporary jetty bridge, UNRA has already initiated the procurement process for a permanent long-span bridge that will provide a stable, reliable solution for the future. The funding for this project has been classified as a national priority, given its importance for connectivity and trade.
The temporary jetty bridge, once completed, will allow traffic to move freely while the permanent bridge is being designed and constructed. This will ensure that trade and transport between Uganda, South Sudan, and the DRC continue without major disruptions.
In related developments, Ms. Kagina also inspected the ongoing rehabilitation of the 145 km Busunju-Kiboga-Hoima Road. The project, which began in May 2023, is expected to be completed by May 2026, with the government allocating 309 billion shillings to the work. This road, crucial for connecting central and western Uganda, is part of the broader effort to improve national infrastructure and facilitate better transportation.