Kampala — SIX firms have bid for the construction of a new bridge across Aswa River. Walter Ochora, the Gulu resident district commissioner, said the work was funded by the European Union (EU), but would be implemented by the Uganda National Roads Authority.

"I cannot tell you the amount of money that will be spent because we are still waiting for the bidding process," Ochora said. The firms that bid for the project include Multiplex, Spencon, Dott Services and Eastern Builders.

Ochora said bidding for the project would end on October 20 and the work would take 12 months. "Once we choose a construction company, work will start right away. We shall ensure that the contractor stays at the site until the completion of the work," he added.

He said the landowners, who would be affected by the new bridge, would be compensated by the Government through the works and transport ministry. He added that his office would register residents, who will be affected by the work.

Ochora said the new bridge would stretch 120 meters south of the old one and the road would be widened. Aswa Bridge was cut off by the September 2007 floods. Three people, including a two-months-old boy, drowned and travellers got stranded on either side of the bridge.