Muscat – Dr Khalfan bin Saeed al Shuaili, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, commended the Royal directives from His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik for addressing challenges in the Batinah Coastal Road project.

In a statement to ONA, he confirmed that the ministry is carrying out the directives, particularly concerning compensation for affected citizens in the North Batinah Governorate.

The minister reported a 90.4% completion rate in cash compensation and a 93.2% rate for in-kind compensation. These payments go to citizens whose properties were impacted by the road project.

Shuaili elaborated on the project’s multiple aims: revitalising urban areas along the coast, leveraging distinct natural features for development, creating tourist attractions, and fostering comprehensive growth along the coast.

Additionally, the project aims to connect coastal villages, besides safeguarding against beach erosion and potential damage to waterfront structures.

“The first phase of the project is complete,” Shuaili said. “It has been transferred to the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology.”

This phase consists of two segments. The first one stretches 66km from Al Naseem Interchange in Barka to Al Suwaiq Port, while the second spans 67km from Sohar Port to Khatmat Malaha.