Omanghana
A young mother and her two-month-old baby have died after their motorbike plunged into a collapsed section of the Bugri Bridge in the Tempane District of the Upper East Region.
The woman, believed to be in her mid-twenties, was travelling with her two children when the accident occurred as she attempted to cross the damaged bridge.
She and her infant died in the crash, while her older child survived.
The latest tragedy brings the number of deaths recorded at the damaged crossing to three within three weeks. A young man had earlier drowned while attempting to cross the flooded and partially collapsed bridge.
The recurring fatalities have sparked anger among residents, particularly the youth of Bugri, who dismantled the remaining hazardous portions of the bridge and completely blocked the road.
The protesting residents have reportedly refused to reopen the route until authorities provide a safe and permanent crossing.
The Bugri Bridge is an important transport link connecting Bugri, Wariyanga, Akara, Tempane and Garu. Residents depend on the route to reach healthcare facilities, schools, markets and other essential services.
Its collapse has disrupted movement between the affected communities and forced some commuters to consider longer or potentially unsafe alternative routes.
Tempane District Chief Executive Joseph Mbilla confirmed the accident and said the assembly had previously closed the bridge because of its dangerous condition.
Despite the restriction, some motorists and motorcyclists reportedly continued to use the crossing.
The district assembly has awarded a contract for the construction of a temporary bypass to restore movement while preparations are made for a permanent replacement.
Authorities expect the full reconstruction of the bridge to proceed after the seasonal rains subside and conditions become suitable for major engineering work.
Local authorities and disaster management officials have advised motorists, motorcyclists and pedestrians to avoid the damaged corridor until the temporary bypass and other emergency safety measures are completed.
The incident has renewed calls for urgent intervention to prevent further deaths and restore safe access for communities that depend on the bridge.
Source: Omanghana
