Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA) has announced a temporary closure of major roads connecting Mleiha Road and Sharjah Ring Road near University Bridge. This closure is part of the ongoing Etihad Rail Project , a transformative national infrastructure initiative aimed at revolutionizing transportation across the UAE. The road closure will last for two months, beginning Tuesday, July 1, and continuing until Saturday, August 30, 2024.
Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes and follow traffic safety guidelines to ensure smooth flow and public safety during this period. While the temporary disruption may cause traffic diversions and delays, the long-term benefits to Sharjah’s connectivity and economic growth are expected to be significant.
Understanding the Etihad Rail Project and Sharjah’s Strategic Role
Etihad Rail is the UAE’s ambitious national railway network designed to connect all seven emirates, while also linking the UAE with the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Launched in 2009, the network aims to provide an efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly transportation system for both freight and passengers.
The entire railway spans over 1,200 kilometers and is being built in phases:
Sharjah plays a critical role in this network as a central transit hub linking the northern emirates with the rest of the country. The emirate’s infrastructure is being integrated with major logistics hubs like the Sharjah Inland Container Depot (SICD) and industrial zones, enabling smoother freight and commuter mobility.
Furthermore, the project will enhance accessibility to Sharjah International Airport and the emirate’s seaports, facilitating more efficient cargo movement.
Impact on Sharjah Residents and Future Benefits
For residents of Sharjah, the Etihad Rail network promises several improvements:
The temporary road closures around University Bridge are a necessary step toward the successful completion of this transformative infrastructure project. Although some inconvenience is expected during the two-month construction period, these efforts align with Sharjah’s commitment to being an active participant in the UAE’s national development.
What Motorists Need to Know
Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority encourages all road users to stay updated on traffic changes and plan accordingly during this period.
Motorists have been advised to use alternative routes and follow traffic safety guidelines to ensure smooth flow and public safety during this period. While the temporary disruption may cause traffic diversions and delays, the long-term benefits to Sharjah’s connectivity and economic growth are expected to be significant.
Understanding the Etihad Rail Project and Sharjah’s Strategic Role
Etihad Rail is the UAE’s ambitious national railway network designed to connect all seven emirates, while also linking the UAE with the broader Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. Launched in 2009, the network aims to provide an efficient, safe, and environmentally friendly transportation system for both freight and passengers.
The entire railway spans over 1,200 kilometers and is being built in phases:
- Phase 1 (Completed): Operational in Abu Dhabi’s western region, primarily transporting sulfur.
- Phase 2 (Underway): Expanding connectivity to key cities including Dubai, Sharjah, and the northern emirates. This phase will connect important ports, industrial zones, and borders such as those with Saudi Arabia and Oman.
Sharjah plays a critical role in this network as a central transit hub linking the northern emirates with the rest of the country. The emirate’s infrastructure is being integrated with major logistics hubs like the Sharjah Inland Container Depot (SICD) and industrial zones, enabling smoother freight and commuter mobility.
Furthermore, the project will enhance accessibility to Sharjah International Airport and the emirate’s seaports, facilitating more efficient cargo movement.
Impact on Sharjah Residents and Future Benefits
For residents of Sharjah, the Etihad Rail network promises several improvements:
- Faster and Eco-friendly Transportation: The railway will provide a greener alternative to road travel, reducing carbon emissions.
- Improved Commute Times: Enhanced rail connectivity will make inter-emirate travel quicker and more convenient.
- Reduced Traffic Congestion: By shifting freight and passenger traffic to rail, the project will help lower road congestion and heavy truck traffic.
The temporary road closures around University Bridge are a necessary step toward the successful completion of this transformative infrastructure project. Although some inconvenience is expected during the two-month construction period, these efforts align with Sharjah’s commitment to being an active participant in the UAE’s national development.
What Motorists Need to Know
- Closure Period: July 1 to August 30, 2024
- Affected Roads: Streets connecting Mleiha Road and Sharjah Ring Road near University Bridge
- Advice: Use alternative routes and observe traffic safety guidelines
- Goal: To ensure the safe and timely construction of Etihad Rail infrastructure in Sharjah
Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority encourages all road users to stay updated on traffic changes and plan accordingly during this period.
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