KAMPALA. The Ministry of Works and Transport has directed the immediate closure of Okollo Bridge on the busy Arua–Nebbi Road to heavy trucks and buses after structural damage was detected, disrupting one of the main transport links in northwestern Uganda.
In a public circular on Friday, Permanent Secretary, Mr Bageya Waiswa said the bridge had been compromised by trucks loaded beyond the allowable 4.2-metre height limit.
Only light vehicles will be permitted to cross until emergency works are completed.
“The structural integrity of the bridge has been compromised and can no longer accommodate heavy goods trucks,” the ministry said, adding that a technical team is carrying out inspections to determine repair works.
The bridge is a vital route for trade and passenger transport between Arua – a major hub near Uganda’s border with the Democratic Republic of Congo – and Nebbi District.
The diversion is expected to affect cargo deliveries to the West Nile sub-region, including fuel and agricultural produce, and could raise transport costs.
Authorities advised trucks and buses from Kampala heading to Arua to use the Pakwach–Inde–Ocoko road, while those on the Nebbi–Arua route will be diverted via Anyiribu-Ullepi or Nebbi–Zombo–Vurra roads.
The ministry said it aims to retrofit the bridge within six weeks, but warned that work schedules will depend on the outcome of inspections.
Economic Impact
The closure comes at a time when West Nile is experiencing growing cross-border trade with Congo and South Sudan.
Transporters said longer routes could add several hours and increase fuel expenses, potentially raising commodity prices in the region.
This also means prices of agricultural products and merchandise from Kampala will also increase in Arua City and Koboko District as a result of closure of the road.
The ministry apologised for the inconvenience and urged compliance with weight and height restrictions to prevent further infrastructure damage.