Ebrahim bin Hasan Al Hawaj, Minister of Works, inaugurated the first phase of the North Isa Town Interchange Project, opening the flyover to traffic.
The project is one of the strategic infrastructure projects overseen by the Ministerial Committee for Development and Infrastructure Projects, chaired by Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister. It aims to enhance the efficiency of Bahrain's road network, improve traffic flow, and strengthen connectivity between several key areas, including Riffa, A'ali, Sanad, Salmabad and Isa Town.
Minister Al Hawaj said the opening of the flyover marks a key milestone in the project's implementation. The flyover comprises three lanes in each direction along Shaikh Salman Highway and is expected to improve traffic flow, enhance the efficiency of the road network in the area, reduce congestion, and enable the remaining phases of the project to proceed according to the approved schedule.
The minister noted that, upon completion, the project will increase the interchange's capacity to more than 22,000 vehicles per hour, enhancing the efficiency of the road network and reducing congestion, particularly along Shaikh Salman Highway, one of the Kingdom's main routes linking the Capital, Northern and Southern governorates.
The project includes the redevelopment of the intersection of Shaikh Salman Highway with Amman Avenue and Salmabad Avenue through the construction of a three-lane flyover in each direction to provide uninterrupted traffic flow along Shaikh Salman Highway. It also includes upgrading the existing at-grade junction by installing traffic signals to facilitate traffic movement on Amman Avenue and Salmabad Avenue.
The project also includes the construction of a stormwater drainage network, road paving, pavement improvements, landscaping works, and the installation of traffic safety features.
Minister Al Hawaj emphasised the ministry's commitment to applying the highest standards of quality and safety throughout all stages of the project. He noted that the necessary measures have been taken to minimise the impact of construction works on traffic and ensure smooth traffic flow, alongside ongoing coordination with the relevant authorities.
The minister also expressed appreciation to citizens, residents and road users for their cooperation and understanding of the traffic diversions associated with the project, noting that their support had contributed to the progress of the works. He called on all road users to continue adhering to traffic instructions during the remaining phases of the project to ensure the safety of motorists and project workers.