'Remaining silent means disaster'

Al-Mukhtar underpass in Najaf shows signs of collapse, officials call for urgent repairs

NAJAF — The Al-Mukhtar underpass in Kufa, Najaf, constructed in 2014 at a cost of 12 billion IQD ($7,983,600), is exhibiting alarming signs of structural failure. Visible cracks, leaning walls, and water accumulation are compromising the integrity of the underpass, posing a significant risk to nearby homes and businesses. Both officials and residents have raised urgent calls for immediate intervention to prevent a potential collapse.

“The underpass is at risk of collapse at any moment because its walls are full of cracks, and the rainwater drainage system is not functioning,” Wissam Al-Hadraawi, a local bakery owner, told 964media. “After every rainfall, the underpass floods, and its sides tilt inward. We demand repairs or a complete reconstruction,” he added, emphasizing that a collapse would have devastating effects on the surrounding community.

Najaf resident Zaid Fares echoed these concerns, stating, “The underpass is deteriorating, and we could face a disaster if it collapses. The cracks must be fixed, along with repaving the road.”

Akram Sharba, head of the municipal committee in the Najaf Provincial Council, labeled the Al-Mukhtar underpass as one of Najaf’s most controversial projects. “One of the most controversial projects in Najaf is Al-Mukhtar underpass, which has now reached the point of collapse,” Sharba said. He attributed the issue to the Kufa Municipality’s premature acceptance of the project before its completion and criticized the Najaf Reconstruction Authority for not holding the contractor accountable.

“We will meet this week with the reconstruction authority and Kufa Municipality to determine the real causes behind the underpass’s deterioration,” Sharba announced. “Remaining silent means disaster in Najaf. I call on all concerned authorities to address this issue immediately.”

Urbanization ruined the countryside

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