The ministry of Works and Transport has announced the immediate closure of Okollo Bridge in Madi-Okollo district after it sustained structural damage caused by an overloaded truck.
According to a notice from the ministry, the bridge, which is a key part of the Arua–Nebbi highway, was struck by trucks exceeding the designated height and weight limits. This impact compromised the bridge’s structural integrity, making it unsafe for heavy trucks and buses.
Bageya Waiswa, the ministry’s permanent secretary, confirmed that a technical team has been dispatched to begin repair works. He stated that the government is committed to restoring the bridge within six weeks through retrofitting and reinforcement measures to ensure its durability.
“The general public is hereby informed that the bridge will be closed to goods trucks and buses for the safety of the public,” Bageya said.
To mitigate transport disruptions, alternative routes have been designated for heavy vehicles. Trucks and buses travelling between Nebbi and Arua are advised to use the Anyiribu–Ullepi road.
In another statement, later the ministry said following a detailed inspection, passenger buses are permitted to continue using the bridge as part of the lighter traffic category. However, drivers are strongly advised to observe a maximum speed limit of 20 km/h while crossing, in order to safeguard the structure and ensure public safety.
For mototists on the Arua–Kampala route, the recommended diversion is the Packwach–Inde–Ocoko corridor.
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