River Mucha Bridge Collapse Halts Kisoro-Bwindi Tourist Traffic

Travelers bound for southwestern Uganda are experiencing significant disruptions after the River Mucha Bridge in Kisoro District catastrophically failed, severing the primary transport link to the popular Rushaga and Nkuringo sectors of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The collapse has made the main crossing completely unusable, impacting both local commuters and international tourists.

In an official notice, the Ministry of Works and Transport confirmed the incident, advising motorists and tourists to seek an alternative route. The recommended diversion involves traveling via Kisoro – Karengyere – Nyanamo – Rubuguri – Rushaga – Nkuringo. This alternative is a gravel road, and the ministry anticipates journey times will increase by an estimated 30 to 45 minutes.

Urgent restoration efforts are underway, with engineers dispatched to the site by the ministry. While addressing the immediate structural issue, officials are also cautioning drivers to navigate the mountainous region with extreme care, particularly during inclement weather. Motorists are encouraged to start their journeys early to mitigate potential delays.

The Ministry of Works and Transport has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safe and reliable transport infrastructure essential for this vital tourism corridor. Updates on the restoration progress are expected as the technical team works to reopen the route.