Local authorities promise repairs
Ghammas district faces risk of bridge collapse
DIWANIYAH — The Sahi Bridge, vital for residents of southern Ghammas villages in Diwaniyah governorate, has shown signs of wear since its construction in 1979, including visible cracks and a hole. This bridge serves as the sole connection to the city for these communities. Concerns over its safety have escalated, prompting fears of a collapse among locals.
The district qaymaqam of Ghammas, Mohammed Swadi, has implemented a ban on large trucks traversing the bridge pending repairs, which require approval from the Ministry of Water Resources. The Sahi Bridge is a crucial artery for several villages including Naghil, Maabara, Barbouti, Tala, Jadweya, Ela, and Nageshiya, collectively home to tens of thousands.
Abu Muhannad Al-Azmawi, the mukhtar of Naghil, expressed to 964media his alarm over the bridge’s condition: “The Sahi bridge is deteriorating.
“We’ve recently observed dangerous cracks and a hole in the middle.”
A Naghil resident, Mohammed Al-Ziyadi, voiced his concerns to 964media: “If the bridge collapses, how will we access the city? Rebuilding will likely be a lengthy process, and projects in Ghammas are slow. We fear a scenario similar to the 2015 Tamar Bridge collapse, which resulted in three fatalities. While the Sahi bridge is smaller and poses less of a threat, its failure could still be catastrophic, particularly for children and non-swimmers.”
Mohammed Swadi elaborated on the efforts to address the bridge’s issues: “We have reached out to the Water Resources Directorate in Diwaniyah. Following their recent field inspection, we are hopeful for prompt ministry approvals to allocate funds for the bridge’s expansion and reconstruction. Although small and often congested, we assure residents that reconstruction will commence swiftly.”
Security forces detain youths swimming near 'dangerous' water project in Ghammas
Ghammas residents protest over detoriating electricity supply
