SLRA Considers Closing Old Railway Line Bridge as Safety Concerns Deepen

The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) says it is considering closing the Old Railway Line Bridge in Brookfields to all vehicles after a fresh assessment found the ageing structure poses significant safety risks.

The warning followed an inspection led by SLRA Director General Ing. Alfred Jalil Momodu and a team of engineers during the ongoing rainy season. According to the authority’s Public Relations Unit, the technical review confirmed that the bridge’s deteriorating condition threatens motorists and residents living nearby.

Built in the 1980s to accommodate Freetown’s expanding traffic network, the bridge has suffered decades of deterioration. SLRA said its foundations have been undermined, reducing the structure’s ability to safely carry heavy loads. Engineers also observed fractured concrete and one end of the bridge hanging above flowing water and accumulated debris.

The authority noted that it had previously restricted the bridge to cars and light vans weighing less than five tons. Heavy trucks and buses that formerly used the crossing to transport goods, construction materials, and other essential supplies remain prohibited.

To enforce the restrictions, SLRA installed barricades at both entrances to prevent unauthorised heavy vehicles from crossing the bridge while longer-term solutions are pursued.

During the inspection, Ing. Momodu also raised concerns about human activity beneath the bridge. According to SLRA, informal settlements and regular use of the underpass have further weakened the structure. The authority said persistent rainfall, combined with waterlogging and human interference, is increasing the risk of further damage.

“Its current state is unacceptable, and we are committed to urgent action”. Ing. Momodu emphasized.

SLRA said its engineers have completed detailed structural assessments and are preparing for major rehabilitation work. Until repairs are undertaken and the bridge is declared safe, the authority said it is strongly considering closing the crossing to all vehicular traffic.

The authority reiterated that protecting public safety remains its priority as plans for rehabilitation move forward.