The Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has advised motorists traveling from Masindi Port and the Paraa-Murchison Falls National Park route to plan their journeys ahead of time so as to avoid delays on the road.

This comes after motorists expressed their concerns over delays, a day after Karuma Bridge was officially closed to all traffic.

While speaking to the media on Tuesday, September 24, 2024, Allan Ssempebwa, the UNRA spokesperson, reminded the travelers that the routes through the park have time restrictions, beyond which they cannot access.

“The traveling public has encountered a number of challenges, particularly delays at crossings like Masindi Port, and also others have been denied access to the park in the night. We expect the inconveniences, but what we can do is to plan our journeys ahead of time. For example, through the park, we know that beyond certain time, I think 7 p.m., the UWA security already put guidelines,” Ssempebwa said.

The rehabilitation works kicked off on September 23, 2024, with the demolition of the concrete deck on Karuma Bridge, and according to UNRA, the works will carry on for approximately three months to ensure the bridge’s long-term safety and durability.

Motorists traveling from Kampala to Gulu or West Nile are advised to take the Luwero-Kafu-Masindi-Paraa route, while those heading to Lira should consider the Rwenkunye-Apac route via Masindi Port Ferry or opt for the longer Iganga-Nakalama-Tirinyi-Pallisa-Kumi-Soroti route.