The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has embarked on the construction of a steel bridge structure at Katonga, along Kampala-Masaka Highway [phase 2 of the bridge restoration efforts]
Once complete, the steel bridge will serve as a temporary bridge for all types of vehicles. As a result, there may be occasional traffic disruption as the contractor [CCCC] prepares for & carries out this phase of work.
The Uganda National Roads Authority has confirmed the arrival on site of equipment to install a steel bridge across the River Katonga, after a bridge there collapsed due to heavy rains in the area.
UNRA Spokesperson Allan Ssempebwa says they expect to complete the installation of the steel bridge, a new temporary structure, in about two months. Ssempebwa says the temporary bridge will be able to carry all vehicles as the authority looks to build a more permanent structure, which will last for at least two years.
“Delivery of construction materials to site is underway to facilitate the construction of the steel bridge structure. It will be a bypass along Katonga section for all traffic flow. On completion we shall have that section raised and other sections along Kampala Masaka highway.
UNRA believes that the at the site China Communication Construction Company (CCCC) will do a great job having constructed a 1.5Km bridge along Nambigirwa Swamp at Kampala-Entebbe express highway and other similar projects
Last week, the Uganda National Roads Authority opened a section of Katonga Bridge but to STRICTLY Light traffic.
Buses and lorries or trucks of any type are still prohibited from using the bridge until further notice.
The construction of the steel bridge at Katonga section will ease transportation of heavy goods since trucks and lorries are still using the 210Km alternative route of Mpigi- Kanoni- Maddu- Ssembabule- Masaka.
