The Tunisian Ministry of Defense has clarified the circumstances surrounding the proposed realignment of Regional Road 72 in Wadi Mellak, Kef Governorate. In response to a written question from Member of Parliament Imad Al-Sediri, the ministry stated that the four proposed alternatives for changing the road's path do not generally pose any problems. This is due to the absence of sensitive areas in the project zone.
The Ministry of Defense was informed on February 27, 2020, that the first proposed hypothesis, with a path length of 9.9 km, was suggested as the most suitable. This was due to its effectiveness for military units to intervene in case of potential threats and its passage through the dam's surroundings. This, in turn, enhances precautions against potential risks. The information was shared on the official parliamentary website.
In his written question, MP Al-Sediri specifically mentioned that the Ministry of Defense had proposed a new path, increasing the distance by 21 km from the initial path. This new path would be more costly for travelers, vehicle owners, and public transportation users. He noted that a public consultation was opened, adopting four hypotheses after agreeing on the fourth hypothesis, which is 7 km long. This option was considered the shortest and most secure, enjoying the satisfaction of citizens and road users from the delegations of Sidi Youssef and Al-Tawerif.
The Ministry of Defense emphasized that it did not propose any new path in this regard, as there was no justification for it. The ministry also stated that it had not received any request or written communication since February 27, 2020. The Ministry of Equipment and Housing had previously prepared four hypotheses for changing the path of Regional Road 72, with lengths ranging from 9.9 km to 11 km.
On December 19, 2019, the Ministry of Defense received a letter from the Ministry of Equipment and Housing, requesting an opinion on the proposed hypotheses. The Ministry of Defense provided its response, highlighting that the proposed changes do not pose any issues. This clarification aims to provide transparency and address concerns raised by citizens and road users.
The proposed realignment of Regional Road 72 aims to improve the road network and enhance safety for users. The Ministry of Defense's clarification provides insight into the evaluation process of the proposed hypotheses. The road connects the cities of Al-Tawerif and Al-Kaf, and its realignment is expected to have a positive impact on the region.
The Ministry of Defense's statement concluded that the proposed changes do not raise any concerns, given the absence of sensitive areas in the project zone. The clarification provides assurance that the proposed realignment will not have any adverse effects on the region or its inhabitants. The project is expected to move forward, with the most suitable hypothesis being adopted.
Key points
- The Ministry of Defense has clarified that the proposed changes to Regional Road 72 pose no issues due to the absence of sensitive areas in the project zone.
