Motorists in Kampala are bracing for significant disruptions as the government announces a comprehensive six-month maintenance project on the Northern Bypass, set to commence on December 28, 2024.
The 21-kilometre stretch, which serves as a vital artery bypassing central Kampala, will undergo extensive rehabilitation aimed at enhancing its durability and functionality. The project will focus on sections between the Kisaasi and Busega interchanges, involving the removal of old asphalt, reprocessing of the road base, priming, and the application of a new asphalt overlay.
To facilitate these works and ensure safety, certain sections of the affected carriageway will be fully closed 24/7, with traffic diverted to the opposite lanes. Authorities are advising motorists to consider alternative routes to minimize delays. The Uganda Police Force will collaborate with Stirling Civil Engineering and the Ministry of Works and Transport to manage the diversions and ensure smooth traffic flow.
This maintenance initiative follows the recent merger of the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) with the Ministry of Works and Transport on December 23, 2024. With this administrative change, the Ministry now directly oversees the upkeep of the Northern Bypass, a mandate that previously fell under UNRA’s scope.
General Edward Katumba Wamala, the Minister of Works and Transport, emphasized the importance of the rehabilitation works in ensuring the long-term durability of this critical infrastructure. He urged motorists to exercise caution and adhere to traffic safety measures to reduce inconvenience during the maintenance period.
The Kampala Northern Bypass, a 22km dual carriageway constructed between 2004 and 2009, was opened to traffic on October 1, 2009. Since then, it has played a pivotal role in easing congestion in Kampala by providing an alternative route for through traffic. This maintenance project is critical for preserving the bypass’s functionality and ensuring it continues to serve its purpose effectively.
Authorities have reassured the public that every effort will be made to minimize disruptions while completing the works on schedule. Motorists are encouraged to plan their journeys accordingly and stay informed about the ongoing developments.
