Wali Al Ahad highway expansion work begins

Manama : Work on the expansion of Wali Al Ahad Highway in Riffa --part located between Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Highway flyover along Wali Al Ahad Highway and the Clock Roundabout to the East -- has commenced, Minister of Works, Municipalities Affairs & Urban Planning Essam Khalaf said.

According to the Minister, the expansion work aims to provide a smoother traffic along Wali Al Ahad Highway; being the main road linking Riffa to Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Highway and Hamad Town.

The Minister explained that the expansion works will be implemented based on the available capabilities and resources related to the present ground services. The Ministry seeks to further expand the highway in the future. Phase 1 of the project comprises of expanding the highway to three lanes at each direction and revamping all intersections along the highway, in addition to re-constructing the highway infrastructure, constructing brick pavements, implementing a storm water drainage network, lighting, signage and protecting the existing services.

Wali Al Ahad Highway contains a number of important facilities and institutions on both sides, such as the Bahrain Defense Force Hospital, the Military Consumer Association, the Southern Governorate Security Police Department, the Supreme Council for Women, Wadi Al Sail Mall, Wadi Al Sail School, Wadi Al Sail Housing Project and other important establishments.

The Minister reiterated that the Ministry seeks to increase the capacity of the highway and alleviate traffic congestions, especially after the opening of Wadi Al Sail Mall. The highway witnesses a traffic volume of around 73,000 vehicles daily.