Butebo secures Shs72m for bridge to link Bukedea
Poor state. Residents at Kamorotot bridge that connects Butebo to Bukedea Districts. FILE PHOTO
What you need to know:
- Mr Moses Okurut, a resident, said they lost two people who were trying to walk over the makeshift bridge and many more have been injured since the bridge collapsed.
- “The government had delayed but we are now happy that they have considered us. Learners have not been going to school for fear of drowning,” he said.
- Traders have on several occasions protested the delay in construction of the bridge, saying they are incurring huge losses in the process of transporting their cattle to Bukedea and Kanyum markets.
Butebo District has secured Shs72 million for the construction of Kamorotot Bridge, eliciting excitement among the residents of Butebo Sub-county, who are optimistic that it will ease transport.
The bridge, which connects Butebo to Bukedea District was washed away by floods in 2017 and becoming a death trap.
In April, one person died and two others were injured after the bridge collapsed.
Mr Sam Keddi, the Butebo District chairperson, told Daily Monitor on Tuesday that the construction of the bridge has brought relief to the residents.
“The ministry of Works has earmarked funds for construction and physical works is to begin soon. This is a positive gesture and residents can now breathe a sigh of relief after years of suffering,” he said, adding that culverts have been taken to the site ahead of the construction works.
Mr Keddi said the construction of the bridge will not only improve the transport network but also boost trade between the two districts.
He, however, called upon the communities and local leaders to embrace the project and also offer support for effective execution of the construction works.
“This is quite commendable that the government has finally responded to our pleas,” he said.
Daily Monitor has learnt that the traders and residents have been parting with between Shs1,000 and Shs5,000 to be aided to cross to either side of the two districts whenever it rains.
Mr Moses Okurut, a resident, said they lost two people who were trying to walk over the makeshift bridge and many more have been injured since the bridge collapsed.
“The government had delayed but we are now happy that they have considered us. Learners have not been going to school for fear of drowning,” he said.
Most pupils in Bukedea District study from schools in Butebo; Jonathan Memorial College, Kashebai Primary School, Butebo SS and St Paul College.
Traders have on several occasions protested the delay in construction of the bridge, saying they are incurring huge losses in the process of transporting their cattle to Bukedea and Kanyum markets.
Mr Gabriel Enyaru, the councillor for Butebo Sub-county, said they have been finding it difficult to access healthcare facilities.
“It has been terrible but now, we can smile,” he said.
The Bukedea District Council chairman, Mr Moses Ochom, said they will be happy upon completion of the bridge.
“Our people had been disconnected because of the bridge,” he said.
