Benedict Lubang, the district engineer, revealed that the cost of full repairs exceeds 1 billion Shillings well beyond the district's current budget. “The Ministry of Works has suggested using 1 billion Shillings from the road maintenance fund for temporary fixes, but this will only offer short-term access,” Lubang explained.
Residents of Pader District and surrounding areas have continued to face significant challenges since 2021 when the Watlac Bridge, a vital link between Wipolo and Atanga Mission, was destroyed by heavy rains. The bridge's collapse has left hundreds of residents cut off from essential services such as healthcare, education, and trade.
The loss of the bridge has crippled the local economy, making transportation and business activities nearly impossible. Patrick Opala, a boda boda rider and resident of Watlac Village, described the community's struggles.
"Businesses have come to a standstill, and expectant mothers, pupils, and the sick can no longer access services at Atanga Mission trading center," he said. “We are stranded, unable to seek medical attention or conduct business beyond the affected sub-counties.”
//Cue in: “Biacara mo kiken…
Cue out: … obalo biacara marac.”//
Local leaders have termed the situation a disaster requiring immediate intervention. Wipolo and Pakeyo parishes have been completely isolated, worsening the already poor road conditions.
"This is a life-threatening situation that must be treated urgently," said Tabu Ojok, the speaker of Ajan Sub-County, urging district authorities to act swiftly.
Despite repeated assurances from district leaders, progress on repairs has been painfully slow, primarily due to funding constraints. District Chairperson Rtd Col Fearless Obwoya Oyat acknowledged the delays and the district's limited capacity to address the issue.
“It’s frustrating, and we understand the people’s concerns,” he said.
Benedict Lubang, the district engineer, revealed that the cost of full repairs exceeds 1 billion Shillings well beyond the district's current budget. “The Ministry of Works has suggested using 1 billion Shillings from the road maintenance fund for temporary fixes, but this will only offer short-term access,” Lubang explained. He noted that full repairs are expected to be included in the 2025/2026 budget.
//Cue in: “So, we need just …
Cue out: … that’s why we wrote.”//
In the meantime, locals have attempted makeshift repairs, particularly during the rainy season, but these efforts have been inadequate, leaving the bridge impassable.
A letter dated February 28, 2024, signed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Works and Transport, Mr. Bageya Waiswa, confirmed that immediate intervention is impossible due to budget constraints.
The ministry acknowledged the urgency of the repairs and pledged to prioritize the bridge in future budgets. “We understand the gravity of the situation and will address it once the necessary funds are available,” the letter stated.
For now, residents continue to endure the hardships caused by the inaccessibility, hoping for a permanent solution.
