Kayonza–A road connecting Kayonza District to the Akagera National Park could close, following cracks that have developed on a bridge in the area.Kidiridimba Bridge is located in Rwinkwavu Sector, about 20 kilometres from the Kayonza-Ngoma highway.According to the District Mayor, John Mugabo, the bridge which was constructed many years ago, had begun to gradually develop cracks, thereby posing danger to users.Mugabo said the bridge was economically important as it connects the district to resource rich areas.“People can’t cross the bridge with vehicles anymore...they disembark to let the vehicle cross empty, then perilously walk slowly across it”.“This is a bridge we can’t afford to lose...there are alternative routes to the Akagera Park, but the road that crosses the bridge is the main one. It also connects us to other sectors and Kirehe District,” he said.He, however, added that the district was working around the clock, together with its partners, to build a new bridge.Emmanuel Mbonyumukiza, the official in charge of infrastructure in the District said the construction expenses of a new bridge would be too expensive for the district.“We have approached the Road Maintenance Division at Rwanda Transport Development Agency (RTDA)...they are about to start building the bridge. We do not have the money to construct such a bridge,” he stated.“Fortunately, most of our district terrain is flat, hence no need for bridges.”Elyse Rwambura, the Director General of RTDA, said a short term solution was underway to have the bridge repaired.He, however, said a study was underway to construct a permanent bridge.“The Ministry of Defence’s engineering regiment will conduct a short term rehabilitation of the bridge,” Rwambura said. “For the long term construction solution, we shall go through the normal procurement process in accordance with the law,” he emphasised.
