A critical bridge at Kunfusi in the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region has collapsed for the second time, cutting off about 4,000 residents and disrupting access to healthcare, markets and other essential services.
The Kunfusi Bridge serves as a major link connecting Kalba, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Tuna and several surrounding communities.
The latest collapse occurred after days of torrential rainfall, leaving motorists and pedestrians struggling to cross and severely affecting movement within the area.
Residents say the development has made it difficult for people to access healthcare and other essential services. Farmers have also been affected, with difficulties transporting farm produce to markets.
Some volunteers have been assisting motorists and pedestrians to navigate the damaged section, while residents have appealed to the relevant authorities to urgently intervene and restore access.
The Assembly Member for the Kunfusi Electoral Area also highlighted the challenges facing residents and called on stakeholders to take immediate action to address the situation.
Regional Minister inspects damage
The Savannah Regional Minister, Salisu Bia Wurbe, accompanied by officials of the Savannah Regional Coordinating Council and the District Chief Executive for Sawla-Tuna-Kalba, visited the area to assess the extent of the damage.
Speaking to the media after the inspection, Mr Bia Wurbe said the collapse had disrupted access to healthcare and other essential services for a significant proportion of the district’s population.
He said efforts would be made to restore access to the affected communities while work continues towards securing a new bridge.
The Regional Minister also urged residents to stop using the collapsed bridge due to the safety risks it poses and to use alternative routes where available.
Residents are now calling for swift intervention to restore connectivity and ensure uninterrupted access to healthcare, markets and other essential services.
