TAIF: Makkah Gov. Prince Khaled Al-Faisal will open today the newly expanded Al-Kur-Hada Road, considered the main artery of Taif, the Kingdom's premier tourist center.
The expansion project on the 12-km busy road was carried out at a cost of SR218 million to facilitate traffic between Makkah and Taif and reduce accidents.
The project included a new two-way bridge over Al-Maasal Valley, installation of some 15,000 concrete blocks on the sides of the road and paving of cat’s eye studs to ensure passengers’ safety.
Transport Minister Jabara Al-Seraisry, who inspected the road last week, will be present at the opening ceremony. He described it as one of the important road projects in the Kingdom.
The Traffic Department has limited the speed on the road at 40 km/per hour and reduced further to 30 km/h at dangerous spots. Traffic patrol police will keep a watch on drivers to reduce accidents. Cameras will be installed to catch reckless drivers.
Around 400 street lights have been used along the road. The road will boost tourism in Taif and neighboring areas and encourage investors to carry out new tourism projects in Hada and Al-Kur areas.
Pilgrims started using the route about 1,000 years ago. Historians said the road was established in the Hijri year of 430 and was the main link between Makkah and Taif.
“Taif has been a meeting point for travelers, traders and pilgrims since time immemorial,” said Historian Eissa Al-Qaseer. It was the main gateway to the Hejaz region.
He said Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) used part of this road when he visited Taif. After returning from Hunain battle, the Prophet followed the route of Makkah, Hunain, Nakhla Yamaniya, Qarn Al-Manazil (Sail Al-Kabir), Maleeh, Bahra Al-Ragha, Layya, Nakhb, Dhayiqa, Sadra and Taif Fort.
