Mountain road to link Al Awabi and Al Hamra, cut travel distance

HADEEL AL MAYAHI
AL AWABI, Sept 22
A new mountain road linking Al Hajir in Al Awabi with Barakat Al Sharaf in Al Hamra is taking shape, with 4 kilometres of the 14-kilometre project already completed.
The project is being implemented by the Al Awabi Municipality Department with support from South Al Batinah Governorate. Once completed, the road is expected to significantly reduce the current journey of nearly 200 kilometres between the two governorates.
Eng Siham Al Mayahi, Head of the Technical Affairs Department at Al Awabi Municipality, said the project is expected to have a positive economic impact by reducing travel time and transportation costs and facilitating the movement of people and goods between the two governorates.
The road is also expected to strengthen social ties between residents of Al Awabi and Al Hamra by making travel and access to services easier and facilitating social visits.
“The mountainous landscape and scenic views could make it a significant tourism and development corridor once completed,” Al Mayahi said.
She noted that future plans could include viewpoints, rest areas, information and directional signs, and visitor facilities at suitable locations. However, she stressed that completing the road remains the priority and that no comprehensive tourism development plan has yet been approved.
Muhanna bin Saif Al Yaarubi, a resident of Al Hamra, said the project would be important for residents and neighbouring communities.
“The new road will make travel easier and less tiring for residents of the area,” he said.
The project faces several challenges, including rugged mountainous terrain, rock formations and difficulties in accessing and operating heavy equipment along some sections of the route. Safety measures and protection against landslides also need to be taken into consideration.
Despite these challenges, the mountain road is expected to create a more direct connection between Al Awabi and Al Hamra, with potential benefits for local communities, trade, tourism and economic activity.
Once completed, the project could transform accessibility between the two areas while opening up new opportunities for development along the mountainous corridor.