Movement of vehicles and people was interrupted abruptly in Bamenda on Saturday afternoon following the collapse of La Chance Bridge, which links the city center and the Rendezvous neighborhood.
The bridge collapsed around 2 pm local time, and fortunately no one was injured.
Eyewitnesses report the collapse happened without warning, and it triggered chaos and worry among residents.
No emergency response measures had been implemented by the City Council at press time.
One witness who was near the bridge at the time described the scene: “I was at the market when I heard news of the bridge collapsing. I rushed to the site and was shocked by what I saw.”
In the absence of official action, residents stepped in to prevent further accidents. Locals have used iron bars to barricade the roads on either side of the collapsed structure, deterring vehicles from approaching at high speeds.
A resident involved in setting up the barricade expressed his frustration.
“I’ve been here trying to stop further casualties. I had to put up iron bars to warn drivers of the danger ahead. It’s shocking that no authority, not even security personnel, have shown up to provide emergency services.”
The lack of response from both security forces and the City Council is causing fear among residents.
With no alternative route in place, bikes and pedestrians still managed to pass on the collapsed bridge.
The stretch of road leading to the bridge is known for heavy traffic, making immediate official intervention crucial.
