A newly opened diversion road around Kapuri Bridge allows traffic to continue as rehabilitation of the damaged bridge prepares to begin. Photo: Ministry of Roads and Bridges.

The Ministry of Roads and Bridges has opened a temporary diversion road around the damaged Kapuri Bridge as preparations continue for rehabilitation work.

Kapuri Bridge, in Luri Payam of Juba County, connects Juba to areas west of the city, including Western Equatoria State.

In a statement issued yesterday, the National Minister of Roads said the diversion will provide an alternative route for motorists while authorities temporarily close the bridge for repairs.

Minister of Roads and Bridges Peter Lam Both said the ministry will identify a competent construction company to undertake the rehabilitation of the permanent Kapuri Bridge and ensure the work is completed to the required standards.

The Central Equatoria State Minister of Roads and Bridges, Latiyo Paul Abbas, said the temporary bypass will allow road users to continue using the route once work on the damaged bridge begins.

Juba County Commissioner Samuel Emiliano said the county authorities will provide the necessary support to the contractor to facilitate the rehabilitation works.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer of GS Group of Companies, Girma Shifaro, said the company is committed to completing the maintenance of the damaged bridge within the agreed timeframe.

The diversion road was opened after an earlier technical assessment found that Kapuri Bridge was in poor structural condition.

The assessment prompted authorities to restrict heavy vehicles and begin preparations for rehabilitation to prevent possible accidents and further damage.