Algeria's government has recently approved the allocation of USD 130 million for the public works sector in 2013 for the implementation of two highway projects in the country, an official source told Zawya.
"The first half of 2013 will witness the initiation of two sizeable highway projects; the Al Sayyar north-south highway and Al Hidab. We call upon the government of Algeria to assist local contractors in implementing both projects," said Molud Khloofy, president of the National Society for Algerian Contractors.
Khloofy said, "The final cost of the projects are yet to be determined; however a tentative amount of USD 130 million has been allocated towards their execution; whereby work is expected to commence during the second half of the current year."
"The Al Sayyar north-south highway, extends for approximately 1,013 km; originating from Al Shiffa in Blida Province, through Berrouaghia town and on to Ghayat Almane'ia, before continuing to the southern tip of Tamanrasset Province," explained Khloofy. Adding that the total length of the highway could reach a distance of 2,500 km, cutting through rugged mountains; and hence warranting the construction of 76 bridges and 6 large tunnels; in addition to having a sizeable portion of the highway suspended.
As for Al Hidab highway, Kholoofy explained that this would run parallel to Al Sayyar east-west and would traverse numerous municipalities within Médéa Province , such as Bou Aiche, Aïn Boucif, Chahbounia, Chellalat El Adhaoura; in addition to Sétif, and M'Sila provinces and Al Hidab.
According to global economic expert and political science professor at the University of Algeria, Fares Masdoor, "Both the north-south and Al Hidab highway will contribute to facilitating transportation and aiding the means of travel to the southern regions of Algeria. Subsequently, this will transfer investments from where they are currently monopolized in the north and major cities, to the southern part of the country and to remote areas; thus availing employment opportunities and revitalizing commercial activity, especially in the eastern and western vicinities of Algeria."
© Zawya 2013
