Financial troubles halted work
Erbil’s Beni Harir tunnel remains unfinished nearly a decade since excavation was completed
HARIR — The Beni Harir Tunnel, located in Erbil’s Harir district, remains unfinished nearly 10 years since construction began on the underpass, with area residents saying they have been waiting for the tunnel to open to facilitate transportation in the region.
Initiated in 2014, the tunnel project was halfway finished before a financial crisis in the region stalled work on the site.
Stretching more than three and a half kilometers, the tunnel is anticipated to reduce travel time between Shaqlawa and Khalifan to approximately 30 minutes.
Speaking to 964media, Khalifan district commissioner Magdid Arif Ahmed confirmed the project has been delayed due to financial troubles, but added that efforts are ongoing to secure funding to complete the tunnel.
“The project is strategic and would connect Erbil to Haji Omran, shortening the route and potentially benefiting trade,” he said. ”Besides the Beni Harir Tunnel, there’s also the Korek Mountain Tunnel related to this project.”
When finished, the Beni Harir tunnel will connect Harir to Bnawe village in Khalifan district. Excavation work for the tunnel has been completed.
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