Engineers installing expansion joints at the bridge.
Engineers have completed the installation of expansion joints at Karuma Bridge.
About two weeks ago, Karuma Bridge, a vital link on the Gulu-Kampala highway, was temporarily closed to all traffic to facilitate the installation of expansion joints.
The closure was part of a series of planned repairs that began in September last year after engineers discovered structural faults on the 61-year-old bridge deck, expansion joints, and bearings.
Karuma Bridge was reopened to traffic on December 20 last year after undergoing three months of rehabilitation work. While the bridge deck and bearings were replaced, the government reopened the bridge without the expansion joints, a crucial structural component for the long-term stability and safety of the bridge.
According to Allan Ssempebwa, the installations have been completed. Ssempebw is a communications officer at the Ministry of Works and Transport.
“Our team COMPLETED installation of expansion joints LAST WEEK; those clever features that ensure the bridge throws no tantrums in case of temperature changes or exposure to heavy loads…! Now, we’re allowing it some time for this installation to cure before opening!” said Ssempebwa last night.
The bridge could reopen in one week from now.
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