By Josephine Sesay

The Sierra Leone Roads Authority (SLRA) has announced the immediate closure of the Old Railway Line Bridge at Brookfields in Freetown, after an inspection revealed serious structural defects that pose a risk to public safety.

In a public notice, the Authority disclosed that a recent technical assessment conducted by experts identified significant deterioration in critical structural components of the bridge, making it unsafe for both motorists and pedestrians.

SLRA said the closure is a preventive measure aimed at protecting lives and property, emphasizing that public safety remains its highest priority.

“The bridge will remain closed pending the necessary rehabilitation or reconstruction works required to restore it to a safe, serviceable, and fit-for-purpose condition,” the Authority stated.

Motorists and pedestrians have been advised to adhere strictly to all traffic management measures and make use of designated alternative routes while the bridge remains inaccessible.

To minimize disruptions and ensure compliance with the closure, the Sierra Leone Police, the Sierra Leone Road Safety Authority (SLRSA), and other relevant agencies will be deployed to manage traffic flow and maintain public order around the affected area.

The closure is expected to impact commuters who rely on the Brookfields route, prompting authorities to urge the public to exercise patience and cooperate with traffic officials during the rehabilitation period.

SLRA expressed regret for the inconvenience caused but assured the public that the decision was taken in the interest of public safety and that efforts will be made to rehabilitate the vital infrastructure as quickly as possible.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 3rd August 2026 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)