Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – The Ministry of Transport, Works, and Infrastructure has reminded the public that the Kotu Bridge remains officially closed, cautioning pedestrians and motorists against using the structure as preparations for full reconstruction move into gear.

In a public advisory issued on Monday, the ministry raised concern over reports that some motorists and tourist taxi drivers have been dropping passengers near the closed bridge, allowing them to walk across to reach nearby hotels and hospitality establishments along the coastline.

Officials stressed that the bridge is unsafe and must not be accessed under any circumstances.

To ease movement in the area, the government has constructed a modern concrete bypass road from the Fajara Hotel, providing an alternative route for pedestrians, taxi drivers, and other road users heading to the BB Hotel and its surroundings.

The ministry urged the public to “strictly follow the alternative traffic diversion routes” to avoid accidents and ensure smooth traffic management.

According to the advisory, reconstruction of the Kotu Bridge is set to begin soon, with a contractor already selected and mobilization to the site underway. The full construction process is expected to last approximately one year.

The Ministry called for the cooperation of all stakeholders during the reconstruction period and encouraged the consistent use of the bypass road to ensure that work progresses without interruption.