On October 5, a significant portion of the Algiers-Tipaza highway will be closed to traffic from 09:00 to 18:00. The closure will only affect drivers heading towards Tipaza, while those traveling towards Algiers will be able to use the highway as usual. The closure is necessary for the finalization of the bituminous concrete pavement, the last stage before the road's definitive opening.
The closure will take place between the territorial limit of Algiers and the commune of Bou Ismail. This section of the highway is crucial for the daily commute of thousands of vehicles between Algiers and the coastal towns. The restriction is expected to cause significant pressure on secondary roads during peak hours.
The work involves laying the wearing course, which gives the road its final surface. This type of intervention cannot be carried out with vehicles on the road, as hot bitumen requires a completely clear construction site. Therefore, the authorities have opted for a complete closure rather than a lane reduction.
A diversion route has been set up to accommodate the traffic. Vehicles will exit the highway at the Colonel Abbas interchange in Douaouda and join the National Road 11. The route then follows the coastline, passing through Douaouda-Marine and Fouka-Marine. The return to the highway is possible at the Bou Ismail interchange, near the UDES solar power plant.
This diversion route is not new to drivers in the area, as it was used during previous phases of the construction project, particularly when traffic was diverted near the AADL housing in Fouka at the beginning of September. The local authorities stress the importance of following the signage and avoiding taking shortcuts through residential areas, which often leads to congestion.
This closure is part of a series of restrictions imposed by the rehabilitation project of the Bou Ismail-Douaouda axis. Similar closures have been implemented over the past few months, either at night or during the day. Earlier in October, an identical section was closed for nine hours for the same technical reasons.
The local authorities have apologized for the inconvenience caused and emphasize that the work will improve the comfort and safety of the axis, which is used daily by thousands of vehicles. They urge drivers to be cautious and follow the temporary signage, as excess speed can pose an immediate danger to workers and equipment on site.
Key points
- A section of the Algiers-Tipaza highway will be closed on October 5 from 09:00 to 18:00 for maintenance work.
- The closure will only affect drivers heading towards Tipaza, while those traveling towards Algiers will be able to use the highway as usual.
- A diversion route has been set up to accommodate the traffic, and drivers are urged to follow the signage and exercise caution.