The Muharraq Council meeting held recently focused on plans to increase traffic on the congested Rayya Highway by 250 per cent. Engineer Hamad Bado from the Ministry of Works provided updates on the project, stating that 90 per cent of Phase 1B is complete. This phase includes widening the highway to two lanes in each direction, installing traffic lights, upgrading drainage, and enhancing lighting. The plan also involves laying underground utility channels and erecting road signs, with Phase 2 set to cover a 3.8-kilometre stretch of the road.
One of the challenges faced in the project is that part of the required land is privately owned, meaning work can only proceed once permissions and funding are secured. Additionally, the Rayya Highway is planned to be linked to the Muharraq Ring Road, which will help ease traffic in surrounding areas such as Al Dair, Samaheej, and Qalali. With 10 per cent of the connection already completed, the project is expected to be finished by March 2025.
Currently, the Rayya Highway handles 1,900 vehicles per hour, exceeding its limit of 1,600. Once the upgrades are completed, the road will be able to accommodate 4,000 vehicles per hour, providing significant relief to the congestion issues faced by commuters in the area. The improvements will not only increase traffic flow but also enhance safety on the highway with the addition of traffic lights and other upgrades.
The Ministry of Works is working diligently to secure the necessary permissions and funding to proceed with the project, which is crucial for addressing the increasing traffic demands in the region. By widening the highway and implementing other enhancements, the goal is to improve the overall transportation infrastructure in Muharraq and create a more efficient and safe commuting experience for residents and visitors alike.
As the project progresses, it is important for stakeholders and residents to stay informed about the developments and any potential impacts on traffic flow in the area. By working together and supporting the efforts of the Ministry of Works, the community can help ensure the successful completion of the upgrades to the Rayya Highway and the subsequent improvements to traffic conditions in the region. With careful planning and collaboration, the vision of a more accessible and efficient transportation network in Muharraq can become a reality in the near future.
