The project marks a milestone in recovery efforts following the devastation of Storm Daniel.
Soldecanarias.net / Adeje
In a ceremony filled with symbolism and commitment to national reconstruction, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Advisor Aqila Saleh, along with the Libyan Prime Minister, Dr. Osama Hamad, and other senior officials, inaugurated the Wadi Merkes Bridge in the Athroun region, at the gateway to Western Darna. This bridge, strategically connecting various localities in the region, is a cornerstone of efforts to restore Libyan infrastructure following the devastation caused by Storm Daniel.
A Unified Effort for Reconstruction
The event was attended by high-ranking figures, including Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Aul Abdul Raziq Al-Nazouri and the Director General of the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund, Engineer Qasem Khalifa Hifter. These leaders, along with other government and parliamentary members, underscored the project’s importance as a symbol of joint efforts between Libyan authorities and international partners.
The Wadi Merkes Bridge is part of an ambitious infrastructure plan to rebuild Darna and its surrounding areas after the September 2024 storm, which caused catastrophic damage, leaving thousands displaced and much of the critical infrastructure destroyed.
A Tour of Progress in Darna
In addition to the inauguration, officials toured other ongoing projects in Darna, such as the city’s Corniche, the Companion Mosque, and 2,000 residential units under development. These initiatives are part of a comprehensive reconstruction plan overseen by the Libyan Development and Reconstruction Fund, which is working in collaboration with foreign companies, including Egyptian partners, to accelerate progress.
Regional Cooperation for Recovery
In January 2024, Libya signed a contract with the Egyptian company «Arab Contractors» to develop modern bridges and roads, improving connectivity between Darna, Sousa, and other regions in the Green Mountain area. These investments aim not only to repair the damage but also to modernize the road infrastructure, boosting economic recovery and enhancing access to remote areas.
An International and Humanitarian Challenge
Reconstructing Darna and its surroundings is not only a technical challenge but also a humanitarian one. Storm Daniel left a devastating toll, highlighting Libya’s climatic vulnerabilities amid ongoing political and economic crises. The Libyan authorities’ commitment to these projects reflects their determination to overcome these adversities and stabilize the country.
Looking to the Future
The inauguration of the Wadi Merkes Bridge symbolizes a step toward a more resilient future for Libya. As the country moves forward in its recovery, authorities face the challenge of balancing urgent needs with long-term planning to ensure the sustainability and safety of infrastructure against future disasters.
This collective effort, supported by regional cooperation and international expertise, marks the beginning of a new chapter for Libya as it strives to become a more unified nation, prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.
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