ABU DHABI- Abu Dhabi General Services Company, Musanada, has started construction work of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Road (Eastern Mangroves Road) traffic improvements project for an estimated cost of AED97 million.

In this regard, all basic works and preparations for this purpose have been completed, indicating that the company is currently engaged in transferring intervening utility lines and widening the road in collaboration and coordination with the Department of Transport, DoT, Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities, DUPM, Abu Dhabi Police General Headquarter, Abu Dhabi Distribution Company, ADDC, Monitoring and Control Centre, ADMCC, and other relevant entities.

The project starts from the Ministries Intersection to the Qasr Al Bahr Intersection, and will involve widening of the existing Sheikh Zayed road from Dhafeer Street to Salama Bint Butti Street by adding a new lane, thereby increasing the number of lanes from 4 to 5.

The purpose is to better accommodate traffic density during peak times and reduce traffic congestion, as the road is a major link connecting Abu Dhabi Island to the mainland. Musanada affirmed that it will carry out the road widening works without causing any obstruction to traffic movement along this vital major route, as the currently used lanes will be maintained open without any closure, indicating that 600 workers are engaged in this important project and operating round the clock to deliver the project within 165 days as per the approved and agreed plan while complying with international specifications and standards.

On the other hand, the DoT has stated that this project forms part of its vision to establish an integrated and sustainable transport for a better quality of life in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi and the dedicated efforts to provide high quality infrastructure and construction of road and transportation networks that serve the local economy and meets the needs of individuals and the community in line with highest international standards. DoT explained that the new expansion and traffic improvement works to Sheikh Zayed Road will highly and effectively ensure a smoother traffic flow, reduce congestion and efficiently enhance the traffic safety on the road, amid the efforts made by the department, represented by the Integrated Transport Centre, to enhance smooth traffic flow in the Emirate.

The Integrated Transport Centre indicated that the works will include operation of the Ramp Metering system across all the entrances to the road, which is expected to reduce flow of vehicles along the road during peak times, resulting a reduced traffic congestion. The centre urged all road users to comply with traffic safety instructions, show flexibility in to facilitate project works on site and to do all they can to maintain the civilized and beautiful look of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi.

© Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2019.