Motorists in Muscat can breathe a collective sigh of relief as a vital section of the Muscat Expressway has reopened for traffic. The stretch between Intersection No. 2 (Madinat Al-Illam Bridge) and Intersection No. 1 (City Centre Qurum Bridge) heading towards Muttrah is now operational following the successful conclusion of maintenance works.
The closure, which began in mid-June, caused some disruption for commuters. However, the Muscat Municipality, in collaboration with the Royal Oman Police Traffic Department (ROP Traffic), ensured the project’s swift completion to minimize inconvenience. The reopening comes as welcome news for residents in the capital, particularly those who rely on the expressway for daily commutes or travel between Muttrah and Qurum.
This development coincides with the recently announced Muscat Expressway expansion project, a significant milestone for the city’s infrastructure development. The project aims to transform the expressway into the Sultanate of Oman’s widest road, boasting an impressive twelve lanes – three lanes added in each direction. This expansion will significantly enhance traffic flow and reduce congestion, particularly during peak hours.
The project’s scope extends beyond simply adding lanes. It also entails improvements to several multi-level intersections, with a focus on optimizing traffic flow and minimizing bottlenecks. Additionally, the project will see the expansion of existing bridges, the construction of improved acceleration and deceleration lanes, and the implementation of essential drainage channels and slope protections.
These improvements will not only enhance the driving experience but also contribute to improved road safety. The redesigned intersections and additional lanes will allow for smoother transitions and reduced merging conflicts, a significant factor in reducing accidents.
The Muscat Expressway serves as a crucial artery for Muscat, connecting various districts and acting as a vital link to other major transportation routes. The reopening of the recently closed section, coupled with the upcoming expansion project, signifies a commitment to improving the city’s infrastructure and ensuring a smoother, safer journey for all road users.
