The Lubi Bridge, connecting the provinces of Kasaï Oriental and Kasaï-Central, was the scene of an unexpected tragedy this Sunday, May 26. A truck coming from Kananga to Mbuji-Mayi violently hit the bridge structure before tipping into the Lubi River. The bridge collapse has major economic repercussions, highlighting a series of pre-existing problems.
According to testimonies collected on site, it was the overloading of the truck which was the cause of this accident. Transported goods, including corn, are now found scattered in the turbulent waters of the river. Fortunately, no deaths were reported, but several injured had to be evacuated to Kena Nkuna hospital, near Kabeya-Kamwanga.
Théophile Kazadi Kalonji, president of the Kabeya-Kamwanga civil society, highlighted the dangers of such a tragedy, pointing to the overloading of the vehicle, the inexperience of its driver, and the dilapidation of the bridge as triggering factors. The lack of adequate security measures on this portion of the national road number one (RN1) was also highlighted, calling for immediate action from the relevant authorities.
The territorial administrator, Gilbert Lukusa Mbuyi, launched an urgent appeal to the central government to find a rapid solution to this situation. The need to rebuild the Lubi bridge in optimal safety conditions has become an undeniable priority. Indeed, the vital role of this infrastructure for commerce and exchanges between the two provinces is undeniable.
The disaster on the Lubi bridge is a stark reminder of the challenges facing road infrastructure in the DRC. It underlines the crucial importance of investing in maintenance and modernization projects to ensure the safety of users and stimulate regional economic development. Pending concrete measures, this tragic incident remains a symbol of the shortcomings of the Congolese road system, calling for collective and resolute action to guarantee a safer future for all citizens.