By Henry Okello
TORORO
Locals in Tororo district are calling for urgent government intervention to restore the temporary diversion at Rubongi Bridge, which has been an important link between Tororo and Butaleja districts. The bridge was recently washed away by heavy rains.
For several weeks now, the bridge remains impassable, leaving residents struggling as pedestrians allegedly pay 1,000shillings and cyclists pay 2,000 shillings to be helped by others to cross the bridge.
In an attempt to alleviate the situation, locals have managed to construct a makeshift bridge to allow movement of pedestrians and cyclists.
The temporary bridge diversion was constructed in 2022 by China Railways to help the ongoing works on the main bridge, but months after the construction commenced, the contractor abandoned the site, citing non-payment by government.
East News has learnt that currently, only cyclists and pedestrians can navigate through the bridge as vehicles are forced to use alternate but longer routes.
The Rubongi Bridge lies on Nagongera – Busolwe road that is frequently used by Members of Parliament from West Budama and other highly placed government officials from Tororo something that locals say should have expedited the bridge construction.
Sarah Awino, a resident of Kisoko says that she operates a business in Tororo central market adding that because of the impassable bridge, she is forced to use longer route to access her working place.
Judith Nyaburu, a resident of Kidera-Panyangasi said that she pays 1,000 shillings to be carried by men to cross the bridge everyday to go to her gardens located in Naluwerere.
“Me I pay money to those boys to carry me since I can’t abandon my gardens,” Nyaburu said.
John Olweny, another resident, expressed concern over delayed completion of the main bridge.
Moses Odell, Mayor Pajwenda Town council in Tororo district, expressed frustration over resulting loss of local revenue.
Locals are now urging President Museveni to intervene such that the main bridge is completed.
