Residents of Muharraq have long been concerned about the dangerous stretch of Khalifa Al Kabeer Highway, commonly known as the ‘Death Road’, where at least five lives have been lost due to fatal accidents over the years. The highway runs between Omar bin Al Khattab School and the fishermen’s port, posing a risk to seasoned fishermen hauling their catch and visitors to the port. Councillor Abdulaziz Al Naar highlighted the hazards faced by pedestrians in this area, with accidents occurring on a yearly basis. The road’s dangerous bend and obstructed view due to trees make it difficult for pedestrians to judge the speed of oncoming vehicles, leading to numerous accidents.
Recognizing the urgent need for increased safety measures, the council has approved the construction of a pedestrian bridge to mitigate the risks associated with the ‘Death Road’. The speed limit along this highway is 100 km/h, and pedestrians often struggle to gauge the speed of approaching vehicles, resulting in accidents. Al Naar emphasized that local residents have raised concerns about the road’s dangerous conditions and have united in their efforts to address the issue. A petition, signed by many concerned citizens, was submitted to the council, calling for immediate action to improve safety in the area.
Efforts are underway to secure funding for the construction of the pedestrian bridge, with donors already expressing their willingness to support the project. The council is actively searching for a construction company to undertake the project and is awaiting approvals from the Ministry of Municipalities and the Ministry of Works before commencing construction. Al Naar underscored the importance of obtaining official clearance from the ministries to move forward with the construction of the bridge, which is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing safety in the area. The council’s proactive approach to addressing the safety concerns of residents signifies a commitment to prioritizing public welfare and mitigating risks on the ‘Death Road’.
The proposed pedestrian bridge is expected to provide a safe crossing point for pedestrians, especially fishermen transporting their catch to the port. By separating pedestrian traffic from vehicular traffic, the bridge will reduce the risk of accidents and enhance overall safety in the area. With accidents occurring frequently along the Khalifa Al Kabeer Highway, the construction of the pedestrian bridge is deemed essential to prevent further loss of life and injuries. Al Naar’s advocacy for urgent action on improving safety measures underscores the council’s dedication to addressing the pressing needs of the community.
Local residents have expressed their appreciation for the council’s efforts to address the safety concerns related to the ‘Death Road’. The approval of the pedestrian bridge construction showcases the council’s responsiveness to the community’s needs and the willingness to prioritize public safety. The collaboration between residents, councillors, and government authorities highlights the collective commitment to enhancing safety measures and reducing risks on the highway. As construction progresses on the pedestrian bridge, residents eagerly anticipate the completion of the project, which is expected to significantly improve safety conditions and prevent future accidents on the perilous stretch of Khalifa Al Kabeer Highway.
