Big changes are coming to one of the busiest intersections in Kuwait. The General Traffic Department has announced a major maintenance project at the junction of Al-Maghrib Expressway and Hussein bin Ali Al-Rumi Road (Fourth Ring Road). This project will be completed in five stages, with each stage lasting one week.
Phase 1: Starting January 9
Phase 1 of the project begins tomorrow, Thursday, January 9, and will last until Friday, January 17. During this period, a key exit will be temporarily closed. The secondary exit from Al-Maghrib Street, which normally leads to the Al-Rawda area for drivers heading from the city center toward Ahmadi, will be shut down. This closure will also affect those trying to connect to the Fourth Ring Road towards Jahra.
Why Is the Exit Closed?
This maintenance work is essential to improve the safety and overall condition of this busy intersection. The project will focus on several improvements, including:
- Road Resurfacing: Fixing cracks and bumps in the asphalt to make the road smoother.
- Signal Upgrades: Updating traffic lights and possibly introducing smart traffic management systems to improve traffic flow.
- Drainage Improvements: Enhancing the drainage system to reduce waterlogging during rain.
- Safety Enhancements: Adding or upgrading pedestrian crossings and installing or improving guardrails.
What Does This Mean for Drivers?
The closure is expected to cause some traffic disruptions. Here’s what drivers can expect:
- More Traffic Congestion: Drivers should plan for longer travel times, especially during rush hours.
- Detours: The Traffic Department will set up detour routes to help drivers avoid the closed exit.
- Possible Delays: Be ready for delays in your daily commute.
Tips to Make Your Journey Easier
To help you navigate the traffic changes, here are some helpful tips:
- Plan Your Route: Check the latest traffic updates before you leave. Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to find alternative routes that avoid the closed exit.
- Consider Other Transportation Options: If possible, use public transport, ride-sharing services, or carpool with others to avoid the congested area.
- Stay Calm: Traffic may be heavy, so remain patient during your commute.
What About the Other Phases?
The project will continue with four more phases, each lasting one week. Each phase will have different closures, and the specific details of the upcoming phases will be announced by the General Traffic Department closer to their start dates.
Why Is This Maintenance Important?
Though these closures may cause temporary inconvenience, they are necessary for the long-term improvement of this critical intersection. The work aims to enhance safety, reduce traffic congestion, and improve overall driving conditions for everyone using this busy route.
By staying informed and planning ahead, drivers can minimize the disruption caused by these changes. It’s important to remember that these improvements will ultimately lead to safer, smoother travel for everyone in the future.