A critical event occurred on the evening of February 13, 2025, when the Nzoro bridge, located on the National Route 26 (RN26) between the territories of Watsa and Faradje, collapsed after a heavy truck passed over it. This incident has led to a complete disruption of traffic on this vital route, plunging both the local population and transporters into a state of crisis.
Witnesses reported that the bridge gave way under the excessive weight of an overloaded truck. “We heard a loud noise and, within moments, a section of the bridge collapsed with the truck on top of it,” recounted a resident of the area to ACTUALITÉ.CD.
Local authorities have confirmed that the infrastructure, already weakened by time and a lack of maintenance, could not withstand the excessive load of the vehicle. The collapse of the Nzoro bridge has effectively isolated several communities in Faradje, including the territory of Dungu, complicating the supply of essential goods such as food, fuel, and basic necessities. Transporters are now forced to use secondary routes, often impassable during the rainy season, leading to increased transportation costs and higher prices in local markets.
It is important to note that the collapse of the Nzoro bridge exacerbates the socio-economic crisis in the Haut-Uele province, following the collapse of another bridge over the Bomokandi River in Gombari (210 kilometers from Isiro) on the RN 26 since September 15, 2023.
**The Impact on Local Communities**
The collapse of the Nzoro bridge has had far-reaching consequences for the communities in the region. With the vital link between Watsa and Faradje severed, residents are facing challenges in accessing essential services and goods. The isolation of Faradje and surrounding areas not only hinders daily activities but also poses a threat to the economic stability of the region.
As transporters navigate through alternative routes, the logistical challenges have resulted in increased costs, which are inevitably passed on to consumers in the form of higher prices for goods and services. The disruption in transportation has disrupted the supply chain, exacerbating an already fragile socio-economic situation in the province.
**Addressing Infrastructure Vulnerabilities**
The collapse of the Nzoro bridge highlights the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and maintenance in the region. As bridges continue to deteriorate due to age and lack of upkeep, incidents like these not only disrupt daily life but also pose a significant risk to public safety.
Experts emphasize the importance of investing in infrastructure resilience to prevent future disasters. By prioritizing maintenance and regular inspections, authorities can ensure the safety and functionality of critical transportation routes, safeguarding communities from the devastating impact of bridge collapses.
As efforts are made to repair the Nzoro bridge and restore connectivity between Watsa and Faradje, it serves as a stark reminder of the essential role that infrastructure plays in sustaining livelihoods and fostering economic growth in the region.
The collapse of the Nzoro bridge serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of infrastructure in the region and underscores the need for proactive measures to ensure the safety and resilience of critical transportation routes. As communities grapple with the aftermath of this incident, the focus shifts towards rebuilding and reinforcing infrastructure to prevent similar disasters in the future.