UNRA explains 'defects and cracks' on new $112m bridge in Jinja

Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA) has explained public concern about the 'defects and cracks' on the new $112 million cable-stayed bridge in Jinja.

The users of the 525-meter-long bridge shared photos on social media expressing worry and concern over the 'peeling tarmac'.

An official from UNRA told NTV Uganda what people are witnessing is a 'deliberate method of construction used by the contractors'.

A picture of Source of The Nile bridge showing peeled off tarmac A picture of Source of The Nile bridge showing peeled off tarmac Pulse Live Uganda

"The peeling off course and bumpy cracks are a non-structural attachment and not a defect on the bridge.

"It's to be replaced with permanent asphalt as soon as the investigation on structural behaviour is concluded and baseline data is formed. This will be done within the defect liability period before the contractor leaves the site.

"At the moment, the Contractor has completed all the tests and has embarked on plans to start application of permanent asphalt on the bridge deck," NTV Uganda quotes Allan Ssempebwa, UNRA's media relations manager.

The bridge which was named "Source of the Nile bridge" is the fifth-largest cable-stayed bridge in Africa.

During its opening, President Kaguta Museveni said: "It will last for 120 years".

The Japanese government financed 80% as a loan of US$100 million at an annual interest rate of 0.01%, repayable in 10 years but extendable to 40 years.