Communters try to help after temporal bridge collapse
Public authorities have called on the residents of Bamenda to exercise greater caution following the tragic incident linked to the collapse of the makeshift bridge during the ongoing road works on the Bamenda urban bypass.
Speaking after the incident, Nfor Cyprain, North West Regional Delegate of Public Works, urged the population to remain alert, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
“People should be very vigilant. If you notice any situation that looks unsafe, especially if there is flooding, please be observant and take care,” he said.
He further warned against attempting to cross when conditions are dangerous
“When the water level is high and the current is strong, people should not cross. Please, people should go around using the deviation indicated by the SDO. If possible, wait for the rain to calm down before crossing.”
The warning comes on the wake of the tragic incident that occurred last Thursday 26th March 2026 which has left the City of Bamenda and Cameroon in shock. Onlookers tried to assist the victims and ensured that they returned home safely though their efforts did not lead to a 100 percent success.
From BUNS Construction Company
From Mezam SDO
In the aftermath, public opinion has been divided. While some residents have blamed the construction company for negligence, others believe the victims may have taken risks by attempting to cross under unsafe conditions.
“It’s unfair to blame only the company,” a source told The Observer. “They should have waited for the rain to stop before attempting to cross. The situation was already dangerous.”
The incident reportedly occurred during a heavy downpour, which made movement difficult and reduced visibility. Combined with ongoing works under the Bamenda Urban Crossing project, the situation created hazardous conditions for pedestrians.
Another source who decided to be anonymous said; "if not of the insecurity, people will not be rushing room at this hour in such a great number." She said.
The Governor of the North West Region, Adolphe Lele L’Afrique, visited the site shortly after the incident and ordered the immediate restoration of pedestrian movement under improved safety conditions. He stressed the need for stronger precautionary measures in areas affected by construction.
The Senior Divisional Officer for Mezam also called on the population to remain vigilant and to respect all safety measures put in place, emphasizing that public cooperation is key to preventing future incidents.
Meanwhile, BUNS Construction has expressed deep regret over the tragedy and extended condolences to the affected families. In an official statement, the company assured that steps are being taken to secure the site.
The company also revealed that its technical team is currently reviewing plans for a stronger and more reliable temporary pedestrian crossing to ensure safer movement, especially during adverse weather conditions.
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