The Algerian government has initiated a project to construct a protective wall along the steep slope of El Fadj on National Road 21, which connects Guelma Province to Annaba Province. This move aims to reduce the number of accidents involving heavy trucks that have been occurring in this area. The road has been notorious for its challenging terrain, with steep slopes and sharp turns that have led to numerous accidents over the years.
The project involves building a sturdy concrete wall that will help slow down and stop heavy trucks that lose control while descending the steep slope. Engineers have identified the black spots where accidents are most likely to occur, and construction companies have been working on the project for several days. The wall is expected to be completed soon and will provide a safe barrier for trucks to rely on in case of an emergency.
National Road 21 is a critical transportation artery that connects the ports and industrial areas in the north to the rest of the country. The road is used by over 12,000 vehicles daily, mostly heavy trucks carrying goods such as sand and gravel from quarries in Ain Abid and Guelma to construction sites in Annaba and El Tarf. The area's challenging terrain has made it prone to accidents, resulting in significant losses over the years.
The slope, which stretches for approximately 4.8 kilometers, has a steep incline of over 10% in some sections. This has made it a challenging section of road for heavy trucks to navigate, particularly during peak traffic hours. To address this issue, the Guelma Public Works Directorate has undertaken several projects to improve the road's safety features.
In addition to the protective wall, the Directorate has also completed a project to repair damage to the slope caused by heavy truck traffic. The area has seen significant wear and tear over the years, with many vehicles using the road to transport heavy loads. The Directorate has also worked with local authorities to implement measures to reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.
The construction of the safety wall is part of a broader effort to improve road safety in the region. A new road was initially planned to connect Guelma to the East-West Highway and Annaba Province, but the project was delayed due to various reasons. Local authorities are now working to revive the project and provide a safer and more efficient route for travelers.
The project is expected to be completed soon, and authorities hope that it will significantly reduce the number of accidents involving heavy trucks on National Road 21. The wall will provide a critical safety feature for trucks and help prevent accidents that can result in significant damage and loss of life.
Key points
- Algeria's Guelma Province is building a safety wall along National Road 21 to prevent heavy truck accidents.
- The wall will help slow down and stop trucks that lose control while descending a steep slope.
- The project aims to improve road safety and reduce congestion on a critical transportation artery.
