Motorists using the Kampala Northern Bypass should prepare for significant traffic disruptions over the next six months as the government embarks on extensive maintenance of the 21-kilometer roadway.
The rehabilitation, set to begin on Saturday, December 28, 2024, will focus on sections between the Kisaasi and Busega interchanges. According to General Edward Katumba Wamala, Minister of Works and Transport, the maintenance will include removing old asphalt, reprocessing the road base, priming, and applying a new asphalt overlay.
To ensure safety, sections of the bypass will be closed around the clock, with traffic diverted to opposing lanes. Motorists are encouraged to use alternative routes to minimize delays. The Uganda Police Force, in collaboration with Stirling Civil Engineering and the Ministry, will oversee the diversions and manage traffic flow.
This initiative comes shortly after the Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) merged with the Ministry of Works and Transport on December 23, 2024, consolidating road maintenance responsibilities under the Ministry.
Gen. Katumba urged road users to exercise caution and adhere to safety measures, acknowledging the likelihood of increased travel times. “We are committed to completing the works within the stipulated timeframe while minimizing inconvenience,” he said.
The Kampala Northern Bypass, a dual carriageway opened in October 2009, has been instrumental in reducing traffic congestion in Kampala by providing an alternative route for through traffic. This maintenance project aims to preserve the bypass’s functionality and ensure it continues to serve its purpose effectively. Authorities have assured the public that efforts will be made to limit disruptions while adhering to the project schedule.