Works ministry, traffic police announce road repairs

1 March 2025, 11:14 am

By Ronald Ssemagonja

As the country approaches the 2026 election year, government ministries and agencies are using the available time to ensure that everything runs smoothly. According to the latest police crime report, the percentage of deaths related to road accidents remains alarmingly high. As the ministry responsible for road rehabilitation and construction, the Minister of Works and Transport, Gen. Katumba Wamala, has confirmed their plan for March 2025 in response to this issue.

The ministry states that following last year’s closure for urgent repairs, Karuma Bridge was partially reopened on December 20, 2024, for light vehicles only. To complete the essential works, the ministry has announced that the installation of expansion joints on Karuma Bridge will take place from March 10 to March 31, 2025, ensuring long-term stability and full traffic restoration. During the same period, expansion joints will also be installed on Ayayo Bridge along the Karuma-Olwiyo road.

As a result, alternative routes to Kampala-Gulu/West Nile include Luweero-Kafu, Masindi-Murchison Falls National Park-Pakwach, and Tirinyi-Pallisa-Kumi-Soroti-Lira and vice versa. Motorists traveling to Lira can also use the Rwenkunye-Apac route via Masindi Port ferry. Road users are therefore advised to cooperate, as the work will last for a short period.

Similarly, the Public Relations Officer of Uganda Traffic Police and Road Safety, Michael Kananura, informed the public about an upcoming road upgrade starting in March 2025. “The Director of Traffic and Road Safety informs the public that the road upgrade will commence on March 3, 2025, and last for four months,” he said.

Road closures will affect the area near Hass Petrol Station, with motorists being diverted to Lukuli Road-Buziga and Glory Ggaba Road. “The main diversion will be implemented at Lukuli Road for motorists who do not reside within the project area,” Kananura explained.

Additionally, construction of a box culvert at Natete Family Loaf Bakery along Masaka Road will also begin on March 3, 2025. To facilitate smooth construction, the area will be sealed off. “Motorists traveling to Nakawuka are advised to use the Nalukolongo-Mutundwe-Nakawuka Road junction to connect to Masaka Road, among other alternative routes,” Kananura emphasised.

The public has been urged to exercise patience and discipline while on the roads. “Adhere to the directives of traffic officers to ensure a smooth and safe flow of traffic. Road users should remain vigilant while on the road,” Kananura advised.