Sur – Authorities in South Sharqiyah have removed the landmark Bilad Sur roundabout as part of a road development project aimed at improving traffic flow and safety.

Munir bin Ahmed al Alawi, Director of the Roads Department in South Sharqiyah, said the structure had been in place for more than 30 years and was widely recognised by residents as a landmark and directional reference point.

He said development projects sometimes require the removal of existing structures when these obstruct new road alignments or public services. The structure interfered with the planned road route and relocation of utilities, including electricity, water and telecommunications networks.

A signalised intersection will replace the roundabout to regulate traffic movement. Alawi said the number of vehicles in the area is expected to increase, requiring more effective traffic management to ensure smoother flow and reduce congestion.

Traffic studies indicate that some roundabouts have become bottlenecks, he added. The Bilad Sur junction connects two existing projects, taking traffic from the LNG roundabout towards other intersections. It also links roads leading to Al Kamil Wal Wafi, Jaalan Bani Bu Ali and Ibra, making it an important junction in the wilayat.

According to Alawi, the project will enhance road safety and improve traffic movement between several wilayats.

He informed that work is progressing ahead of schedule, with completion targeted by the end of October. Coordination is ongoing with the contractor to accelerate implementation.

Demolition of the roundabout has been completed and utility relocation works are under way, paving the way for construction of the new signalised junction.

The project is part of efforts to improve road efficiency and traffic management in Sur.