Key roads connecting Erbil, Sulaimani undergoing renovation

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Major renovation work is underway on four main roads connecting Erbil and Sulaimani, crucial routes used by thousands of vehicles daily.

The upgrades aim to improve road safety and reduce travel time, particularly for truck drivers and those who frequently commute between the two provinces.

The renovation of the Smaquli road, one of the key highways between Erbil and Sulaimani, began last year and is now expected to be completed within the next 25 days, according to Kosar Hama Salih, Director of Reconstruction and Roads in Koya.

Salih explained that the initial contractor faced issues with the road’s asphalt layering, but the new plan has addressed these concerns, and work is progressing toward completion.

Another critical road project is the  Federal Highway (also known as Mam Jalal Highway) in northeastern Koya, which is crucial for easing traffic congestion in the area.

Koya Governor Tareq Haider emphasized the significance of these roadworks, noting that the roads linking Koya to Erbil and Sulaimani are essential for connecting the two major cities, facilitating commerce, and easing transportation.

Kawa, a local resident, voiced his concerns over the poor condition of the roads, explaining that “the roads turn to mud in winter and dust in summer, severely affecting businesses, with market activity down by 70 percent."

Three of the four roads under construction pass through Koya, underscoring the region's strategic role in the transportation network between Erbil and Sulaimani.

These efforts are part of a broader initiative by the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), which has constructed approximately 1,200 kilometers of new roads across cities, towns, and villages over the past five years, enhancing infrastructure and business activity in the region.

Kurdistan24 reporter Aras Ameen did further reporting.