Counting losses: The impact of Karuma bridge closure on local businesses

1 October 2024, 2:26 pm

By Olomo Joshua

Kiryandongo

Business operators along the Karuma-Kamdini road have raised concerns about the financial losses they are facing due to the complete closure of the Karuma Bridge.

Last month, the government suspended the bridge’s operations for three months to allow for essential repairs.

As a result, traffic has been diverted to the Kungu-Masindi Port ferry, leading to substantial losses for businesses along the Karuma-Kamdini route.

Denis Gony, a boda-boda rider in Karuma town council, Kiryandongo district, reported a sharp drop in passenger numbers since the bridge’s closure, causing significant losses.

Sandra Atoo, a trader in agricultural produce in Karuma town council, acknowledged the negative impact on her business following the traffic diversion from the bridge.

Additionally, Moses Omara, the LC1 chairperson of Kamdini town council in Oyam district, confirmed the concerns raised by local business owners about the financial repercussions of the bridge’s closure.