Kamakwie, Sierra Leone – The Mahelayhun Bridge, a critical link between Kamakwie in the Karene district and Ngowahun in the Bombali district, collapsed earlier today, as confirmed by Sierra Leone’s Disaster Management Agency.
The National Disaster Management Agency (NDMA) has confirmed the incident, which occurred at approximately 1:30 AM, involved a truck with the registration number AWF 798.
The driver and two other individuals on board the truck sustained minor injuries, and fortunately, no fatalities have been reported.
Initial investigations by the Agency revealed that the aging bridge, already showing visible cracks, could not withstand the truck’s heavy load.
In response to the incident, the NDMA is working with local youths to construct a temporary footpath downstream to facilitate pedestrian crossing.
The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) has been alerted and is actively coordinating with other road construction companies to establish a temporary road solution.
“We expect to have the temporary road completed by Monday,” NDMA noted.
Engagements with relevant stakeholders are ongoing to expedite the process.
The NDMA urges the public to exercise caution when traveling in the area and to follow any instructions provided by local authorities and road construction personnel.
“We appreciate the cooperation of local authorities as we work to ensure the safety and well-being of all road users in the affected area,” NDMA stated.
For now, the NDMA continues to monitor the situation closely and is committed to ensuring a swift resolution to restore normalcy on the Kamakwie Highway.
