An Ariel view of a section which flooded and caved in along river Katonga(Photo/Courtesy)
The River Katonga Bridge along Kampala- Masaka busy highway has finally caved in.
The collapse of the bridge follows the busting of River Katonga banks on Thursday morning which resulted into abrupt severe flooding along the highway
Traffic has since Thursday morning, May 11th 2023 paralyzed after the rising of the water levels, making it difficult to cross the bridge since Water has been flowing at a terrible speed
By Thursday evening, a section of Katonga Bridge had caved in, making transport more difficult for travelers trying to access Masaka Masaka and the Western axis and vice versa.
The Uganda Police and the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) diverted traffic to Mpigi—Kanoni—Maddu—Ssembabule—Masaka, & vice versa alternative route to allow water levels to subside.
“The water levels at Katonga River have risen significantly, posing a serious risk to motorists and pedestrians attempting to cross. For your safety, we strongly advise using alternative routes while we collaborate with UNRA
to address the situation promptly. Travelers from Kampala are encouraged to utilize the Mpigi-Butambala-Ssembabule road as a viable alternative.” the Police Statement reads
Motorists from Kampala travelling to Masaka and vice versa are now driving 181Km on Mpigi—Kanoni—Ssembabule—Masaka road to access Masaka town.
The Road connecting kalungu District to Gomba via Miwuula through River Katonga was also swept aware by the running water and as of now motorists and pedestrians can no longer use the road section.
Mr. Allan Ssempebwa the UNRA spokesperson said the Authority will have to wait for the water levels to slow down to find a term solution of the affected sections on River Katonga.
“We urge all road users to exercise caution, refrain from travelling through flooded areas for their own safety, and promptly report flooding incidents for immediate response.” he said
Transport fares to the Western axis have since Thursday morning doubled since motorists are now driving a doubled distance especially between Kampala and Masaka because the only alternative route is the 181Km road of Mpigi- Kanoni- Ssembabule- Masaka.
