By Alan Clement
Governor Louis Lobong Lojore of Eastern Equatoria State has appealed for a swift restoration of the damaged Lolere bridge in Torit County.
He made the appeal during his inspection visit along with state advisors and ministers to the site aimed at assessing the damage caused by the collapse of Lolere Bridge; a key transport link between Torit and the national capital, Juba on Monday.
The bridge was recently washed away by powerful water currents following heavy rainfall, rendering it impassable and disrupting the movement of people and goods.
“I am appealing to the National Ministry of Roads to act swiftly and restore this vital lifeline so that our people can access timely services,” Governor Lobong stated. “Infrastructure like roads and bridges are not just physical assets, they are the backbone of economic growth, mobility, and public service delivery,” he added.
During the site visit, Governor Lobong witnessed long-haul trucks stranded with essential supplies and passenger vehicles halted at the broken crossing. Speaking to the press, he described the bridge as a “national lifeline” and issued an urgent appeal to the National Ministry of Roads and Bridges for immediate intervention.
Governor Lobong revealed that while awaiting national-level intervention, the State Government will begin mobilizing local resources to initiate temporary repairs. These short-term measures are intended to provide limited relief to travelers and transporters affected by the disruption.
He assured commuters and transporters of the State Government’s commitment to public safety and encouraged the continued use of temporary measures, such as passenger exchange across the damaged section, while lobbying for comprehensive rehabilitation.
The Governor’s visit highlights the growing urgency to address deteriorating infrastructure in Eastern Equatoria and signals a renewed state commitment to ensuring public safety and economic continuity amidst rising climate-related challenges.