A view of the site where Falakat Sabah Al-Khayyat was removed and converted into a central median in Baghdad’s Al-Shaab district — photo by 964media.
Baghdad removes Sabah Al-Khayyat roundabout in traffic redesign project
BAGHDAD — The Al-Shaab Municipality has removed the well-known Sabah Al-Khayyat roundabout in eastern Baghdad, converting it into a central median as part of a traffic management project aimed at easing congestion in one of the city’s busiest areas.
Located in the Al-Shaab district near Madinat Al-Sadr, the intersection had carried the artist’s name for decades. It was originally known as “Falakat 83,” but locals began calling it “Falakat Sabah Al-Khayyat” after the singer and composer’s recording studio opened nearby. Al-Khayyat is known for more than 30 songs and numerous performances.
Mueyed Munshed, head of the Roads Department at the Al-Shaab Municipality, told 964media that the redesign is intended to improve vehicle flow. “The plan called for removing the roundabout and allowing continuous movement from Zain Al-Qaws Street and Abu Al-Qasim Al-Shabi Street toward Fahmi Street and the Ammar Bin Yasser Mosque, then connecting to Aden Street,” he said.
While some residents and drivers said the change has yet to reduce congestion, others noted a decline in accidents. Shop owner Haider Mohammed told 964media, “Traffic was always heavy here around four in the afternoon, and accidents happened every 15 to 30 minutes. Now the number has dropped, but they should create more turning points to shorten routes.”
Other locals expressed frustration. “Removing the roundabout was wrong,” said resident Hashim Hussein. “Did it solve the congestion? It’s still the same. The paving was good — why remove it? Closing it only harms residents.”
Another resident, Sajad Karim, recalled the area’s history. “It used to be called Falakat 83 Al-Saghira, but people renamed it Falakat Sabah Al-Khayyat because his recording studio was nearby,” he said.
Munshed said the redesign followed directives to eliminate the roundabout and replace it with a continuous median along Fahmi Al-Mudarris Street. “Work is ongoing to install curbstones and landscaping,” he said. “The project aims to end the disorderly traffic that once caused congestion, and we are in the final stages of improving Zain Al-Qaws and Fahmi Al-Mudarris streets.”