Muscat: Al Batinah Expressway, a crucial transportation artery connecting the largest governorates of the Sultanate of Oman, is experiencing a pressing issue with its lighting infrastructure. Despite installing approximately 11,400 lighting poles along the expressway, as highlighted by the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology during the project's official opening, certain areas still suffer from non-functional lighting.
Highways play a pivotal role in showcasing a country's infrastructural advancements and facilitating commercial, economic, and social activities. Despite facing challenges posed by the rugged geography of the region, Oman has made significant progress in this domain. However, the absence of operational lighting on these highways poses an additional danger to its users, especially considering the abundance of stray animals, which significantly impairs visibility.
A citizen of the wilayat of Shinas, Mohammed al Raisi, says: "I frequently travel from Al Batinah highway to Muscat for work, but the lack of lighting makes it extremely challenging for me." He further emphasised that the highway serves as a vital link between Oman and neighbouring countries. Visitors from neighbouring countries often question the absence of lighting on the highway. With the recent addition of petrol filling stations, the importance of lighting is no less significant than the availability of petrol stations.
Many others keep the same view as Al Raisi. According to Amjad al Balushi, "The Al Batinah Expressway, especially in sections distant from residential areas, becomes exceptionally dark during evenings, necessitating the use of full vehicle lights. This has negative repercussions for drivers in the opposite direction, as it hampers their focus and impairs lane identification, ultimately making it difficult to navigate safely." Al Balushi highlighted that the limited visibility of vehicle lights adversely affects drivers' vision, posing significant dangers to road users, particularly those who commute daily or weekly. Al Balushi urged the concerned authorities to expedite the installation of lighting infrastructure to mitigate risks and enhance road safety.
Youssef al Abri stated, "With the increasing traffic on Al Batinah Expressway, renowned for its safety features and meticulous design, the road has become a vital lifeline and a reflection of improved services in Oman. However, ensuring proper lighting across the majority of the highway is essential to enhance its functionality." Abdullah al Zaabi, who uses the road frequently, acknowledged the efforts of the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology and emphasised the importance of finding alternative options in the road infrastructure. These efforts play a pivotal role in facilitating smooth and expedited travel to desired destinations, reducing distances between wilayats and villages. Al Zaabi stressed the urgent need to activate road lighting, especially considering the prevalence of stray animals, which pose various risks if drivers fail to notice them.
In light of the urgent need for lighting solutions along the Al Batinah Expressway, it is imperative that immediate action is taken to ensure the safety of all road users. The absence of functional lighting not only hinders visibility but also poses significant risks, especially with the presence of stray animals in the region. The Al Batinah Expressway stands as a testament to Oman's progress in infrastructure development, and it is vital that its full potential is realised through the implementation of effective lighting measures.
To address this pressing issue, it is essential for the authorities concerned to explore innovative alternatives, such as the utilisation of solar energy or low-energy consumption lamps, thereby promoting sustainable solutions. By doing so, the highway will enhance road safety and contribute to the country's commitment to environmental conservation.
The voices of citizens like Mohammed al Raisi and Amjad al Balushi highlight the daily challenges commuters face and the crucial need for improved lighting infrastructure. As Youssef al Abri rightly points out, the Al Batinah Expressway serves as a lifeline for countless individuals and communities, and its functionality must be optimised through proper illumination.
It is imperative that immediate steps are taken to address the pressing need for lighting solutions along the Al Batinah Expressway.
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