Engineer Ibrahim bin Hassan Al Hawaj, Minister of Works, inaugurated the flyover forming the first phase of the Northern Isa Town Interchange Project and officially opened it to traffic. The project is one of the Kingdom's strategic infrastructure initiatives 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.
The Minister stated that the opening of the flyover marks a major milestone in the implementation of the project. The bridge consists of three lanes in each direction along Shaikh Salman Highway and is expected to significantly improve traffic flow and increase the efficiency of the surrounding road network, benefiting road users by easing congestion while enabling the remaining construction phases to proceed according to the approved project schedule.
He noted that, upon completion, the project will increase the interchange's capacity to more than 22,000 vehicles per hour, enhancing the overall efficiency of the road network and reducing traffic congestion, particularly along Shaikh Salman Highway, one of Bahrain's main arterial roads linking the Capital, Northern, and Southern Governorates.
The Minister explained that the project includes the redevelopment of the intersection between Shaikh Salman Highway and Amman Street and Salmabad Avenue. It features the construction of a three-lane flyover in each direction to provide uninterrupted traffic movement along Shaikh Salman Highway, in addition to upgrading the existing at-grade intersection with traffic signals to facilitate traffic on Salmabad Avenue and Amman Street.
The project also includes the construction of a stormwater drainage network, road paving works, pavement upgrades, landscaping and beautification works, and the provision of comprehensive road safety measures.
The Minister affirmed the Ministry's commitment to implementing the highest standards of quality and safety throughout all stages of the project. He highlighted that all necessary measures have been taken to minimize the impact of construction works on traffic movement while ensuring continuous coordination with the relevant authorities.
He also expressed his appreciation to citizens, residents, and road users for their cooperation and understanding regarding the traffic diversions implemented during construction, noting that their support has contributed to the smooth progress of the project. He called on all road users to continue adhering to traffic instructions during the remaining phases of the project to ensure the safety of both motorists and workers on site.
