USAID is helping to restore Iraq’s transportation networks — vital supports of Iraq’s commerce, culture, and infrastructure. In cooperation with Iraq’s Ministry of Public Works and in coordination with the Coalition Provisional Authority, USAID is rehabilitating the Khazir Bridge over the Greater Zab River on Highway 2 between Mosul and Arbil.

Extensive damage to the bridge poses a major safety hazard along a critical route for delivery of humanitarian aid and vital resources to the Iraqi population. The span is critical for the movement of fuel and agricultural products in northern Iraq. A divided highway passes over the twin concrete structures of the bridge, carrying two lanes of traffic in each direction. The northern abutment and first span on both bridges have substantial damage causing the spans to fail. However, since no bypass can be feasibly constructed at the site, it is necessary to keep at least one lane of traffic flowing across the structure.

The failed span on the south structure has been temporarily filled with earth to create a lane for traffic. Demolition work will be phased with reconstruction while maintaining this reduced traffic flow. The bridge work is expected to be completed in March 2004.