All public resources must be used in a sustainable and responsible manner for the benefit of all citizens, the Kabale district Chairman has appealed.

Mr Addison Kakuru's call comes after his office received reports that some individuals working on the Hamurwa Bridge in Kabale are charging illegal fees on vehicles crossing to Kabale and Kanungu districts.

He was on Friday monitoring the construction of the bridge, which collapsed in 2007, paralysing transport. Some residents revealed that while transporting produce to markets, traders have been charged by a foreman who was supposed to stop vehicles from using the bridge. Drivers were allegedly charged Shs10,000 per vehicle to cross the bridge.

The Uganda National Roads Authority station engineer, Mr Arthur Abenietwe said the report of extortion is being investigated. He said the bridge should not be used before its completion otherwise its life span would be affected.