MUSCAT : The first agreement focuses on completing the Saih Qatna project in the Wilayat of Jabal Akhdar, while the second addresses the rehabilitation of the Bidbid-Nizwa road.

The Saih Qatna project focuses on upgrading an existing road that spans 9.2 kilometres, beginning from the main road in Al Jabal Al Akhdar and traversing a series of mountainous terrains to the Riyad Al Jabal farm. This upgrade will feature a dual-lane design, with each lane measuring 3.5 meters wide, complemented by 1.5-meter asphalt shoulders and 1-meter cement shoulders on each side. The road will adhere to the standards set in the Road Design Manual 2017, ensuring it is equipped with all necessary traffic safety measures, including concrete and metal barriers, guidance signs, and ground and warning paints.

The project aims to enhance traffic flow, facilitate movement, strengthen social ties, and stimulate tourism in the region.

In addition to the Saih Qatna project, the Ministry has also secured an agreement for the rehabilitation of the Bidbid-Nizwa road. This project will address damaged sections of the dual carriageway from the eastern bridge intersection to the Nizwa-Firq intersection, covering a total length of 100 kilometres, with approximately 60 kilometres identified as affected sections.

The rehabilitation work will involve the complete removal and reconstruction of the asphalt layer across the damaged areas, including both the surface and bituminous asphalt layers. It will also entail reshaping and converting existing slopes according to the current path’s specifications, as well as rehabilitating roundabouts at intersections based on site conditions.

Additional tasks include the removal and reinstallation of road accessories such as guard rails, sign boards, curb stones, and interlocking tiles affected by the construction. The project will also focus on the removal and re-establishment of side protections, expansion joints in bridges, and will utilize asphalt recycling technology to ensure efficient use of materials.

As with the Saih Qatna project, the Bidbid-Nizwa road rehabilitation will meet the highest traffic safety standards, featuring iron barriers, guidance and warning signs, and road markings, alongside necessary diversions and permits from relevant authorities.

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