The Ministry of Works and Transport has announced that the Karuma and Ayago Bridges along the Kampala–Gulu highway will be closed for repairs starting Monday, March 24, 2025.
This temporary closure will allow for the installation of expansion joints, a crucial maintenance measure designed to preserve the structural integrity of the bridges.
According to Allan Ssempebwa, the Ministry’s Information Officer, the closure is expected to last for at least three weeks. The ministry acknowledged that this move would disrupt travel along the busy highway, which serves as a vital link between central and northern Uganda.
To minimize the disruption, the ministry confirmed that ferries at Masindi Port have been fully repaired and successfully tested. These ferries will be operational on the same day as the bridge closure, offering an alternative route for motorists and transporters.
Ssempebwa also mentioned that ongoing works on Karuma Bridge had temporarily been suspended to focus on the repairs at Masindi Port to support the diversion.
With the ferry service now in place, the ministry has urged travelers to adjust their plans accordingly. “Please plan your journey ahead! We regret any inconvenience caused,” it said in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).
Motorists are encouraged to stay updated on further announcements and use the designated alternative routes to avoid delays.
Karuma Bridge, located along the Kampala–Gulu highway at Karuma Falls, was first closed to traffic in May 2024 due to critical structural defects. It underwent extensive repairs before reopening in December 2024. Now, the Ministry of Works and Transport has scheduled further maintenance, including the installation of expansion joints, to enhance the bridge’s durability.
