The Ministry of Works in Bahrain has made significant improvements to traffic flow in the country by increasing the capacity of intersections by 40% and reducing waiting times by 30%. They have been focusing on transforming major intersections across all governorates by replacing roundabouts with multi-level intersections and traffic light-controlled junctions. In Manama, all roundabouts have been replaced with signalised intersections to improve traffic flow and enhance safety for road users.
The ministry has also emphasized its commitment to expanding and developing the road network, with a notable increase in the road infrastructure budget allocation. In 2023, they spent approximately 33.707.845 million Bahraini Dinars on road expansion and development projects, which is a significant 220% increase compared to the previous year. Several key projects are currently underway, including the Al Fateh Road Development and the Al Janabiya Road Expansion project, which aims to benefit residents in surrounding areas.
One of the key projects outlined by the ministry is the expansion of the Al Jasra elevated intersection, which has doubled the capacity for traffic coming from the north on Al Janabiya Road towards Shaikh Isa bin Salman Highway. Additionally, the development of Al Riya Road into a dual carriageway and the construction of an elevated left turn bridge from Al Janabiya Road onto Shaikh Isa bin Salman Road are also part of the ministry’s plans to accommodate the growing traffic flow in the area.
In addition to physical infrastructure improvements, the ministry is also focusing on implementing smart solutions to address traffic congestion. They have started implementing smart solutions such as the SCOOT system, which optimizes traffic light coordination in nearby intersections, and introducing smart parking meters on commercial streets. The ministry is conducting traffic studies for congested streets, particularly in the city, to explore the possibility of converting them into one-way streets to further alleviate traffic congestion.
Overall, the Ministry of Works in Bahrain has been actively working towards improving traffic flow and enhancing safety for road users through infrastructure projects and smart solutions. With a significant increase in road infrastructure budget allocation and ongoing projects to expand and develop the road network, they are making strides towards transforming major intersections and addressing traffic congestion in Bahrain. The implementation of smart solutions further demonstrates their commitment to improving traffic management and enhancing the overall transportation infrastructure in the country.
