The Tunisian Ministry of Defense has clarified its stance on proposed changes to the route of regional road 72 in the Kef governorate. According to the ministry, four proposed alternatives to the road's path do not pose significant issues, as there are no sensitive areas in the project zone. This response was given to a written question from a member of parliament, Imad Al-Sediri.
The road in question connects the cities of Tawaref and Kef. On February 27, 2020, the Ministry of Defense was informed of four proposed alternatives for the road's route, with lengths ranging from 9.9 km to 11 km. The ministry suggested adopting the first proposed route, which is 9.9 km long, as it would facilitate the intervention of military units in case of potential threats.
The proposed route also passes near a dam in the area, which would enhance precautions against potential risks. However, a member of parliament noted that the Ministry of Defense had suggested a new route that would add 21 km to the original path, making it more costly for travelers, vehicle owners, and public transportation users.
The Ministry of Defense has denied proposing a new route, stating that there was no justification for doing so. The ministry also claimed that it had not received any requests or written proposals regarding the project since February 27, 2020. The four proposed alternatives were put forward by the Ministry of Equipment and Housing.
The Ministry of Equipment and Housing had prepared the four proposed routes, which vary in length, and had requested the Ministry of Defense to provide its opinion on the matter on December 19, 2019. The Ministry of Defense had suggested adopting the first proposed route, which it considered the most suitable.
One of the proposed routes, the fourth alternative, is 7 km long and has been deemed the shortest and most secure option. This route has gained the satisfaction of citizens and road users from the delegations of Saqia Sid Youssef and Tawaref. The Ministry of Defense has emphasized that it did not propose any new route.
The clarification by the Ministry of Defense comes after concerns were raised about the potential impact of the road project on the local population and travelers. The project aims to improve the road network in the Kef governorate, but its implementation will require careful consideration of various factors, including environmental and security concerns.
Key points
- The Ministry of Defense has clarified its stance on proposed changes to regional road 72 in the Kef governorate.
- The proposed routes do not pose significant issues, as there are no sensitive areas in the project zone.
- The Ministry of Defense suggested adopting the first proposed route, which is 9.9 km long.
