Baghdad: The head of the National Contract Bloc, Abdul Amir Al-Mayahi, has taken steps to ensure that the Basra-Baghdad road expansion project is incorporated into the governorate’s implementation plan. This action comes in response to the increasing number of traffic accidents occurring on this critical route.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Mayahi highlighted in an official document the severe threat posed to both citizens and visitors due to these frequent accidents. He stressed the necessity of expanding and upgrading the road to meet technical specifications that would improve traffic safety, protect lives and property, and keep pace with the urban development underway in the region.

A recent traffic accident in the Al-Haritha district underscored the urgency of this issue, resulting in the tragic death of nine pilgrims and injuries to twelve others. The victims were en route to the holy city of Karbala for the Arba’een pilgrimage, further emphasizing the need for immediate action to enhance road safety.