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Paramount Chief Abdul Rahman Tejan Bangura of Sanda Tendare Chiefdom provided an update on the reconstruction efforts for the collapsed Mathehun Bridge along the critical Makeni-Kamakwei Road in northern Sierra Leone.
The bridge closure, caused by a heavily loaded truck on July 10th, has significantly impacted travel in the region. However, Chief Bangura assured the public that the Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) has deployed crews working around the clock to expedite the reopening.
“We appreciate the SLRA’s swift response to this situation,” said Chief Bangura. “The bridge’s closure has caused some challenges, including rice price hikes. We’re hopeful that the bridge will be open to traffic again soon.”
The SLRA confirmed the bridge collapse in a recent press release. They acknowledged a prior inspection of the bridge and a planned maintenance project but highlighted the urgent need for full reconstruction due to the extensive damage.
“We are prioritizing the bridge’s reconstruction while actively exploring temporary solutions to restore traffic flow,” an SLRA spokesperson stated. “Efforts are underway to secure resources and collaborate with partners to establish an alternative passage within the next 24 hours.”
In the meantime, the SLRA advises travelers between Makeni and Kamakwei with light vehicles to consider alternative routes.
