Sangasar’s aging Sada Bridge raises safety concerns

RAPARIN — Residents of Sangasar sub-district in the Raparin administration, Sulaymaniyah, have expressed concerns about the structural safety of Sada Bridge, a vital connection point in the area. The bridge, built more than 50 years ago, links the villages along the Qandil Mountain range, the Haj Omran border road, and the routes of Raparin.

Residents warn that the bridge shows visible cracks and instability caused by floods and water erosion. Despite assurances from local authorities, fears of a potential collapse remain.

Sirwan Rasul, a resident of Sangasar, told 964media, “Sada Bridge is essential for daily transportation, but due to flood damage, it has become unstable and cracked. Drivers and locals cross it with caution and fear of collapse.”

Rasul emphasized that the bridge was originally built in the 1970s and is now outdated. He urged authorities to prioritize its reconstruction before a tragic accident occurs.

In response, Tariq Khdir, Director of Road Maintenance and Protection in Raparin, acknowledged the concerns but downplayed the immediate risk, “Yes, the bridge is old and needs to be rebuilt. However, we assure residents that there’s no current risk of collapse unless an extremely powerful flood occurs in the area.”

Khdir also highlighted broader infrastructure challenges, “Aside from Sada Bridge, seven other bridges in the region require renovation. We’ve repeatedly raised this issue over the past three years, but no response or funding has been provided so far.”