The "L'Heure est grave" collective, transport operators, and the Vision citoyenne movement are raising the alarm about the advanced state of disrepair of the Émile Badiane bridge spanning the Casamance River in Ziguinchor. They are calling on the authorities to urgently construct a new bridge and replace the Tobor bridge to guarantee the safety of users.

Members of the "L'Heure est grave" collective visited the Émile Badiane bridge to witness firsthand the dangers posed by the infrastructure. Speaking to the press, El Hadj Kamara, the president of "L'Heure est grave," emphasized that "the Émile Badiane bridge is a vital artery for the entire region. Observations made by users, technicians, and local stakeholders reveal visible deterioration: advanced cracks, localized crumbling of the concrete, exposed reinforcing steel, and increased vibrations when heavy vehicles pass over it."

These elements, while not alarmist, should encourage caution and promote up-to-date, transparent, and shared expertise, he indicated. The group says it wants to contribute to a preventive, responsible, and collaborative approach.

Therefore, El Hadj Kamara and his colleagues are calling for a strengthening of the framework for public intervention. "We suggest that the State consider activating exceptional mechanisms to accelerate the assessment, planning, and financing of the necessary work. The group also recommends updating and publishing a technical audit."

On this point, the president of the collective specifies that transparency and public information are essential to maintain trust and to support any structuring decision.

The situation is serious and requires a temporary adjustment of the authorized tonnage and the development of a clear timetable for the rehabilitation or reconstruction of the bridge.

For Vision citoyenne, "the two bridges are very old and represent a daily danger. The President of the Republic himself was informed of their critical condition during a visit," recalled Madia Diop Sané, the national coordinator.

He is demanding concrete actions. "We are tired of hearing promises about completed studies and the presentation of models. We demand concrete actions rather than promises. We recently saw the model of the new bridge again, but we insist on the necessity of its actual construction," Mr. Sané fumed.

He also recalled the strategic importance of the Émile Badiane bridge; which is "the only gateway for those coming from the North and its absence or collapse would have disastrous consequences".

Recalling the tragedy of the ferry "Le Joola," Madia urges the authorities to act quickly and clarify the financing of the bridge construction. "Conflicting figures are being mentioned regarding the budget allocations: 50 billion, 100 billion... We want to know the facts."

Ousmane Thiam, also known as "Thiamas," the vice-president of the Ziguinchor bus station, insists on the urgent need to build a new bridge. "Users feel threatened and are afraid to use it, praying for their safety every time. There is an imperative need to build a new bridge for the safety and well-being of the Senegalese population."

Video statement from the president of the "THE HOUR IS GRAVE" Collective, El Hadji Kamara