A truck driver transporting sugar to Sukari Industries sustained minor injuries this morning after Oria-Riat Bridge in Uriri Sub-county collapsed.
The heavy rains currently experienced in the area have been blamed by section of the residents for weakening the bridge’s foundation hence the accident.
However, others faulted the truck driver to Homa Bay for plying the route with an overloaded truck that exceeded the specified bridge weight capacity.
The area Deputy County Commissioner, Monica Kang’ethe, confirmed the incident and noted that a multi-agency from Sub-county security team, Kenya Rural Roads Authority, Migori County Government representatives, and other key stakeholders are assessing the damages caused by the collapsed bridge and possible cause.
Kange’the asked Uriri residents to remain calm as the major stakeholders work on how fast they can restore the bridge which connects Migori and Homabay County.
The area Member of Parliament Mark Nyamita said he will work closely with Sukari Industry management to restore the structural capacity of the bridge under close supervision of KERRA engineers.
Nyamita however, advised the company trucks to use the alternative routes available when transporting sugar cane to the industry. He called on the heavy vehicles to strictly observe the weight limits indicated for various bridges across the constituency.
Migori County Government Chief Executive Committee Member in charge of Public Works, Roads and Transport Moses Chamwada warned that they will only allow tractors with 16 tons and below to use the Uriri-Rapogi-Uria road.
Chamwada said any tractor/trailer violating this direction will be impounded and action taken.
By Geoffrey Satia
