Strategic Spilk-Khalifan road project boosts connectivity, economy in Soran
Local residents are already noticing improvements. “The road was previously crowded because it’s the main route to Soran and Haji Omeran. But thanks to the efforts of the ninth KRG cabinet, the congestion has been greatly reduced,” said Ahmad Akram, a local resident.
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – The Spilk-Khalifan road, a vital strategic project of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), is nearing completion in the Soran Independent Administration.
The 80 billion dinar project, now in its final phases, will connect the Haji Omeran border crossing and the Soran Independent Administration with Erbil and Duhok, significantly enhancing regional connectivity.
This 10-kilometer highway is set to ease traffic congestion, especially along key routes leading to the Haji Omeran border crossing.
Once completed, the road will serve as a critical link between Soran and the rest of the Kurdistan Region, providing a smoother and faster transit route to Erbil and Duhok.
On Wednesday, Kurdistan Region Prime Minister Masrour Barzani inaugurated the much-anticipated Spilk-Khalifan highway in the Soran Independent Administration.
Read More: PM Barzani inaugurates key Spilk-Khalifan highway in Soran Independent Administration
Project engineer Hashim Saadi highlighted the road's strategic significance in an interview with Kurdistan24. “The project spans 10 kilometers, with two directions, each measuring eight meters wide. We’ve also constructed four key underpasses—the Barzan, Khalifan, Alana, and Korek underpasses—to ensure seamless traffic flow and reduce congestion," Saadi explained.
In addition to alleviating traffic, the new road is expected to bring economic benefits to the region.
Local residents are already noticing improvements. “The road was previously crowded because it’s the main route to Soran and Haji Omeran. But thanks to the efforts of the ninth KRG cabinet, the congestion has been greatly reduced,” said Ahmad Akram, a local resident.
Another resident, Rauf Aziz, shared similar sentiments: “The road used to be frustrating to drive on, but the new highway has made it much easier for the people of Khalifan.”
Constructed to international standards, the 80 billion dinar project is on schedule and promises to significantly improve infrastructure and accessibility in the area. The project’s completion is only the first phase, with a second phase already planned. The broader aim is to strengthen the region's infrastructure to support tourism, trade, and economic growth.
The Spilk-Khalifan road is a key step toward fostering economic recovery and enhancing the livelihoods of people in the region, setting the stage for future development in the Soran area.
