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13-lane new Garhoud Bridge to be open for traffic by yr 2008

DUBAI — As many as 24,000 vehicles can cross the new 13-lane Al Garhoud Bridge in an hour, upon its completion by early 2008.

This revelation came from a senior official of the Roads and Transport Authority, while motorists continue battling traffic snarls. The scene is aggravated in recent weeks by the ongoing construction works at the bridge.

The Director of Roads at RTA, Nabeel Mohammed Saleh, said the existing bridge will be demolished by 2008. "For some time before the demolition, when the new bridge will be operational, the old one will serve as an alternative route for motorists to prevent traffic jams," he explained.

He also said the capacity of the existing bridge has been increased by seven lanes in each direction to reduce traffic congestion.

At present, the bridge accommodates less than 9,000 vehicles per hour.

"During this month especially, traffic jams seem to be never ending, and with the ongoing construction work, the lanes seem to have been further narrowed," said a motorist.

"Sometimes, the jam extends till the second or even third interchange on Shaikh Zayed Road. This is really frustrating, because even if we leave as early as possible, the travel time does not lessen," he added.

The construction of the new bridge started in March this year and is on schedule, the official said.