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Dhofar, Jabal Akhdar road projects to boost connectivity, tourism

21 Sep 2024 Dhofar, Jabal Akhdar road projects to boost connectivity, tourism By OUR CORRESPONDENT

Muscat – Significant strides are being made in the sultanate’s transport infrastructure, with key road projects nearing completion across the country, particularly in Dhofar and Jabal Akhdar.

According to Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology (MTCIT), the Arjot-Sarfait Road in Dhofar is 93% complete and expected to be fully operational by the end of the year.

H E Khamis bin Mohammed al Shammakhi, Undersecretary in the ministry, informed that the new route, connecting Salalah with the western wilayats of Rakhyut and Dhalkut, will extend to the Sarfait border crossing with Yemen. “The road passes through rugged mountainous terrain requiring rerouting to avoid landslide-prone areas,” he said. The project, which costs RO11.3mn, is in its final stages and aims to ensure safer travel while improving road connectivity in the region.

MTCIT is also working on enhancing access to the picturesque region of Jabal Akhdar. A 9km stretch of road between Seih Qatna and Riyad al Jabal Farm is currently under development, aiming to ease the journey for both residents and tourists visiting the area’s scenic landscapes.

The new road will support local tourism and development by connecting about 20 villages, rural areas and popular tourist spots, including the Al Hail viewpoint overlooking the mountain villages of South Batinah.

The route will also benefit Oman’s growing adventure tourism sector, with thousands of visitors, including cyclists and motorcyclists, flocking to Jabal Akhdar each year to explore its challenging terrain.

The ministry highlighted the fact that these projects are not just about improving access but also about raising safety standards, catering to the needs of local communities and enhancing the country’s tourism appeal.

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