The construction of a highway connecting Bejaia to Ahnif, a crucial project aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the region, is facing significant challenges. The most complicated section of the project involves the Sidi Aich tunnel, which is being developed by a Chinese-Algerian consortium, CRCC-SAPTA. The tunnel is part of a 100km highway that will eventually link Bejaia to the East-West highway at Ahnif.
The Wali of Bejaia recently inspected the project site, expressing concerns over the slow pace of work. The Wali visited the Akhenak section of the highway, between Takrietz and Sidi-Aich, and demanded that the Chinese company, CRCC, reinforce its workforce and equipment to expedite the project's completion. The Wali also instructed the director of public works to prioritize the completion of individual sections of the highway.
According to the Wali's office, the project is currently 60% complete, with the section connecting Akhnak to Amizour via Sidi-Aich nearing completion. The Algerian administration has pledged to support the project by providing the necessary materials and resolving issues related to the extraction and use of construction materials. The Chinese company has faced difficulties in obtaining these materials due to opposition from local authorities and residents.
The project's progress has been hindered by a shortage of manpower and equipment, as well as issues with subcontractors. Four subcontractors have reportedly abandoned the project due to payment delays. The situation has led to concerns about the project's timely completion, prompting the Wali's intervention.
The highway project, launched in December 2013, is being developed by a Chinese-Algerian consortium at a cost of 101 billion dinars. The project aims to reduce traffic congestion in the region, particularly in the city of Sidi Aich, which experiences significant traffic jams daily. The Wali's visit to the site was aimed at addressing these concerns and ensuring the project's timely completion.
The Algerian authorities have reassured the Chinese company that their needs will be addressed, and the project will be completed as planned. The project's progress will be closely monitored to ensure that it meets its deadline. The highway is expected to significantly improve traffic flow in the region and contribute to the local economy's growth.
The project's completion is crucial for the region's development, and the Algerian authorities are working to resolve the challenges facing the project. The Chinese company has been urged to accelerate its work and meet the project's deadline. The Wali's office has confirmed that the project will be completed as planned, and the highway will be opened to traffic soon.
Key points
- The Algerian authorities have ordered a Chinese company to reinforce its workforce and equipment on a highway project in Bejaia, amid concerns over delays.
- The project, launched in December 2013, aims to reduce traffic congestion in the region and is being developed at a cost of 101 billion dinars.
- The Wali of Bejaia has inspected the project site and expressed concerns over the slow pace of work, urging the Chinese company to accelerate its work and meet the project's deadline.
