The first phase of the Isa Town Northern Junction Development Project was inaugurated by a top official yesterday and opened to traffic for the first time with the simple aim of allowing heavy traffic to flow.
Works Minister Ibrahim Al Hawaj inaugurated the long-awaited flyover, which is expected to enhance efficiency of the road network and strengthen connectivity between Riffa, Aali, Sanad, Salmabad and Isa Town, as well as linking up to major urban, education and industrial areas.
The project is one of the strategic initiatives overseen by the Ministerial Committee for Development and Infrastructure Projects, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa.
Speaking during the inauguration, Mr Al Hawaj affirmed that the opening of the flyover marks a major milestone in the implementation of the project.
“The flyover comprises three lanes in each direction along Shaikh Salman Highway and is expected to contribute directly to improving traffic flow and enhancing the efficiency of the road network in the area,” he said. “This will have a positive impact on road users, reduce traffic congestion, and enable the remaining construction phases to proceed in accordance with the approved programme.
“Upon completion, the project will increase the junction’s capacity to more than 22,000 vehicles per hour, further enhancing the efficiency of the road network and reducing congestion, particularly along Shaikh Salman Highway, which is one of the principal routes linking the Capital, Northern and Southern Governorates.”
The project aims to upgrade the junction of Shaikh Salman Highway with Amman Avenue and Salmabad Avenue.
Works include the construction of a three-lane flyover in each direction to provide uninterrupted traffic movement along Shaikh Salman Highway. Additionally, it will upgrade the existing junction through the installation of traffic signals at ground level to facilitate traffic flow on Salmabad Avenue and Amman Avenue.
The project also includes the construction of a stormwater drainage network, road paving, pavement improvements, landscaping and beautification works, and the provision of modern road safety requirements.
Mr Al Hawaj reaffirmed the ministry’s commitment to applying the highest standards of quality and safety throughout all stages of the project’s implementation.
He noted that a range of measures had been put in place to minimise the impact of construction work on traffic movement and ensure the continued flow of traffic, alongside ongoing co-ordination with the relevant authorities.
He also expressed his appreciation for the co-operation and understanding shown by the community and motorists regarding the traffic diversions associated with the construction works.
He emphasised that this co-operation had contributed to the smooth progress of the project and called on everyone to continue adhering to traffic guidance and regulations during the completion of the remaining phases, in order to ensure the safety of both road users and project personnel.
The project was awarded by the Bahrain Tender Board for approximately BD22.3 million. Bids submitted ranged from BD18.9m to BD30m, but the Tender Board ultimately awarded the contract to a consortium of Alghanim International and Almoayyed Contracting.
Construction works began in late 2024, and all phases are expected to be complete by late 2026 or early 2027.
nader@gdnmedia.bh
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