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UIPE Arua, Gulu, Kampala, and Soroti Branches Conduct Professional Tour to Karuma Bridge and Hydropower Dam

On 30th November 2024, members of the Uganda Institution of Professional Engineers (UIPE) from the Arua, Gulu, Kampala, and Soroti branches conducted an insightful Professional Tour to the Karuma Bridge and the Karuma Hydropower Dam. The tour provided a unique opportunity to learn about the engineering challenges and solutions associated with these critical infrastructure projects.

Group Photo

The team was warmly hosted by Eng. Lawrence Pariyo, the Head of Bridges and Structures Consultant at Uganda National Roads Authority (UNRA), alongside the team from Uganda Electricity Generation Company Ltd (UEGCL). With over 240 attendees participating, the event offered both practical insights and expert-led discussions.

Karuma Bridge: Structural Challenges and Renovation

According to Eng. Pariyo, the Karuma Bridge has faced significant structural challenges over the years. He highlighted two main issues:

1.       Deterioration of the Concrete Deck: Further tests revealed that the concrete deck of the bridge was porous, weak, and showed signs of corrosion and carbonation. The bridge had outlived its intended structural lifespan.

2.       Bearing Lifespan: The ideal lifespan of the bearings for such structures is around 20 years. However, the Karuma Bridge’s bearings had been in place for over 60 years, far exceeding their expected duration.

These issues led UNRA to restrict heavy traffic, such as trailers, buses, and trucks, from using the bridge. Only taxis and small vehicles were permitted to pass.

Following a thorough assessment, it was decided to replace the deck and bearings to restore the bridge’s integrity. Fortunately, the bridge guard remained in good condition and was not replaced, though new guardrails will be added. With these renovations, the bridge’s lifespan is expected to increase by 20 to 25 years. Additionally, the bridge is being redesigned to carry much wider loads.

The renovation was set to be completed, with the installation of solar lights and the official reopening of the bridge scheduled for 20th December 2024.

Karuma Hydropower Dam: Insights on Power Generation

After the bridge tour, the UIPE team proceeded to the Karuma Hydropower Power Dam, where they were given a detailed presentation on the facility’s operations. The Karuma Hydropower Dam features six power plants, and the team had the opportunity to visit the monitoring/control room, where they received firsthand insights from the shift in-charge, Mr. Joel Namunane.

The dam has an impressive installed capacity of 1500MW, though it operates at a capacity significantly below its potential. During peak hours, Uganda’s entire electricity consumption reaches only 950MW, meaning the dam operates under capacity, with the excess potential available for future growth or export.

The tour concluded with a comprehensive visit to the hydropower dams, offering the team a deeper understanding of Uganda’s energy generation infrastructure.

The tour proved to be an invaluable learning experience for UIPE members, deepening their appreciation for the engineering solutions being implemented to address the nation’s infrastructure needs.

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