(JUBA) – Heavy trucks and commercial vehicles have been banned from crossing Kapuri Bridge with immediate effect after engineers found the structure could fail, threatening the main road link between Juba, Luri and Mundri.
The Ministry of Roads and Bridges issued the order on 25 June. A recent technical inspection found that key parts of the bridge are badly worn, the load bearing capacity is reduced and the overall structure is no longer sound. Engineers warned of a serious risk of partial or progressive collapse unless traffic weight is cut without delay.
Under the order, only light vehicles will be allowed to use the bridge. The load limit has been set at five tonnes. Heavy goods vehicles, construction machinery and any transport exceeding that weight must find other routes. The Ministry said the restriction will stay in place until the bridge is either repaired, replaced or declared safe by a formal assessment.
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Roads and Bridges, Engineer Gabriel Makur Amour, signed the directive. He said the measure is meant to protect lives and preserve what remains of the bridge while permanent works are planned.
The Directorate of Roads and Bridges will work with traffic police and security agencies to place warning signs at all approaches to the bridge. Officials will also set up control points to check vehicle weights and monitor compliance. The Ministry warned that any person or company breaking the order will face legal and administrative action.
The Ministry said it will speed up work on a proposed concrete replacement bridge. In the meantime, it plans to build an engineered bypass and a culvert crossing to keep traffic moving while construction is under way. Transport operators and businesses have been told to arrange other ways of moving heavy goods until the bridge is safe again.