Baghdad Faces Traffic Congestion Despite New Bridges

The Baghdad Provincial Council viewed the continued traffic congestion in the capital, despite the construction of new bridges, as a "normal matter," stating that the congestion is "temporary." Council member Ali Al-Mashhadani, in a statement to "Baghdad Today," explained that "the new bridges being constructed in the capital will significantly reduce traffic jams in the upcoming phase, especially since Baghdad needs more attention to road issues." Al-Mashhadani noted that "traffic congestions in certain areas where bridge construction is taking place are normal, and these congestion issues are temporary. Work is ongoing 24 hours a day to expedite the completion of these projects, and certainly, the citizens understand that this work is aimed at developing their city and resolving the congestion crisis that has affected Baghdad's areas for many years, without any solutions." Minister of Construction and Housing, Benkin Rikani, announced on Tuesday the opening of the Nisour Overpass in western Baghdad for vehicle movement.