Nyagatare bridges in a sorry state

NYAGATARE - Residents of Nyagatare district have expressed concern over the state of some of the bridges that connect the road system to different sectors, saying they are almost collapsing. According to Rukomo residents, movement of vehicles from Nyagatare to Rukomo has been brought to a standstill after one of the bridges that connect two sectors developed cracks. “Many businesses have stopped because of this bridge that developed cracks. Only pedestrians and cyclists can (cautiously cross over.) We don’t know what to do,” a Rukomo businessman told The New Times. As a result, residents said that heavy trucks and other vehicles transporting commercial goods from sectors of Rukomo and Ngarama in Gatsibo district have greatly been affected. It has also affected pupils who cross the bridge daily to go to schools. “As an extra caution I now have to wake up and accompany my children to school every morning and evening as I am worried about the sorry state of this bridge,” Eric Munyemana, one of the area residents near the bridge said. Another bridge that connects Nyagatare town and sectors of Rwempasha and Tabagwe is also on the verge of collapse. “Look at this bridge. It is an accident waiting to occur. There are a number of heavy vehicles that pass here on a daily basis. We are wondering why the district is not taking immediate action on this issue,” another resident wondered. Speaking to reporters, Nyagatare district Vice Mayor in charge of Economic Affairs, Enock Byabashaija, said that district authorities were aware of the issue and action would be taken in the next two weeks. “We are aware of this issue and I must add that tenders for construction works for all the affected bridges have already been issued,” he said. Ends