DIY road maintenance
Pshdar residents rally to clear flood-blocked roads
PSHDAR, January 25 – In the wake of severe floods and heavy rains, the community of Pshdar, north of Sulaymaniyah, has come together to tackle the challenge of clearing their rugged, mountainous roads. The pathways, vital for connectivity into the village, have been obstructed by a mix of rocks, fallen trees, and mudslides.
Ahmed Abdullah, a member of the local council, told 964media about area’s vulnerability: “Our mountainous region is prone to heavy rains, especially during winter,” he said.
This seasonal weather often leads to significant traffic disruptions, caused by natural debris like trees and rocks. Abdullah expressed frustration over the lack of response despite “repeated requests to authorities for road clearance,” emphasizing the road’s importance not only for Shini village but also as a critical link connecting several villages in winter.
The issue of road accessibility during winter is a recurring challenge, as explained by Abu Bakr Weisi, the director of the Halsho sub-district. Speaking to 964media, Weisi confirmed the deployment of a team to address the situation.
“Every year, our mountainous terrain bears the brunt of heavy rain and snowfall,” he noted. The resulting landslides and mudslides regularly block the roads, making annual cleaning operations essential. Weisi assured that necessary measures are taken each year to maintain road accessibility and safety.