The Ministry of Works and Transport has confirmed that the Karuma and Ayago Bridges along the busy Kampala–Gulu Highway will reopen to all vehicles on Monday, April 14, 2025. This comes after weeks of intense maintenance work that forced the temporary closure of these crucial bridges, causing significant disruptions for travelers and traders in Northern Uganda.

The bridges were closed in mid-March to allow engineers to carry out essential repairs, particularly the installation and curing of expansion joints. These joints are critical because they allow the bridge structures to adjust to temperature changes and the weight of passing vehicles, preventing cracks and other long-term damage. The ministry emphasized that these upgrades were necessary to ensure the safety and durability of the bridges, which serve as major links between Kampala and the northern regions.

In a statement released on Saturday, April 12, the ministry expressed gratitude to the public for their patience during the repair period. The closure had sparked widespread concern, especially among business owners and commuters who rely on the route for daily travel and trade. Many were forced to take longer alternative roads, leading to increased transportation costs and delays in the delivery of goods. The timing of the closure was particularly challenging, coming just before the busy Easter season when traffic on the route usually surges.

Despite the reopening, some minor works will still continue. These include installing guardrails, street lighting, and cat’s eyes—reflective road markers that improve nighttime visibility. Other ongoing tasks involve river training works to protect the bridges from erosion and painting the steel plate girders to prevent rust. However, the ministry assured the public that these remaining activities will not disrupt traffic flow, meaning vehicles can pass without further delays.

The reopening of the bridges is expected to bring relief to thousands of travelers, truck drivers, and business operators who depend on the Kampala–Gulu Highway. The road is a major economic artery, connecting the capital to key districts in the north and facilitating trade with neighboring South Sudan. The prolonged closure had strained supply chains, with traders reporting higher costs due to longer travel distances and increased fuel consumption.

Local leaders and transport associations had earlier raised concerns over the impact of the bridge closures, urging the government to expedite the repairs. Many argued that the lack of alternative high-quality routes made the situation worse, as heavy trucks and passenger vehicles were forced onto smaller, less maintained roads. Some drivers reported increased wear and tear on their vehicles, while others faced longer working hours to compensate for the extended travel time.

The Ministry of Works and Transport has defended the timing of the repairs, stating that delaying the maintenance could have led to more severe structural problems in the future. Bridges, like all infrastructure, require regular upkeep to remain safe and functional. The Karuma and Ayago Bridges, in particular, handle heavy traffic daily, including large trucks carrying goods to and from border towns. Without proper maintenance, their condition could deteriorate rapidly, leading to more expensive repairs or even catastrophic failures.

As the bridges reopen, authorities are urging drivers to remain cautious, especially in the initial days when minor construction activities may still be underway. The ministry has also reminded the public to report any unusual vibrations or damages they notice while crossing the bridges, as early detection of issues can prevent accidents and further disruptions.

For now, the focus is on restoring smooth traffic flow and minimizing further inconvenience to road users. The completion of the major repair works marks a significant step in maintaining Uganda’s transport infrastructure, ensuring that key routes remain safe and operational for years to come. The ministry has promised to continue monitoring the condition of the bridges and carry out any additional maintenance as needed to prevent future emergencies.

The reopening is expected to ease the strain on businesses and commuters who have endured weeks of delays. Traders transporting perishable goods, such as fruits and vegetables, will particularly benefit from the restored route, as longer detours had previously led to spoilage and financial losses. Passenger buses and private vehicles will also resume normal schedules, reducing travel time for those moving between Kampala and northern towns.

While the repairs have been a temporary inconvenience, the long-term benefits of stronger, well-maintained bridges outweigh the short-term challenges. The government’s commitment to infrastructure development remains crucial for Uganda’s growing economy, ensuring that trade and transportation networks remain efficient and reliable. With the Karuma and Ayago Bridges back in operation, the northern region can once again enjoy seamless connectivity with the rest of the country.

The ministry has also hinted at plans for further upgrades on major highways to reduce the frequency of such disruptive closures in the future. By investing in durable materials and proactive maintenance, authorities hope to minimize inconveniences while keeping Uganda’s roads and bridges in optimal condition. For now, the focus remains on celebrating the return to normalcy as the vital bridges reopen, marking the end of a challenging but necessary period of repairs.