Infrastructure Development Key to Overcoming Sanctions
The Minister of Roads and Urban Development has stressed the critical role of transport and transit infrastructure in countering international sanctions. Speaking at the inauguration of a 29-kilometer section of the Maragheh-Hashtroud freeway, Minister Sadegh highlighted that transit and transport of goods and passengers remain unaffected by sanctions, making infrastructure development a strategic priority.
Acknowledgment of Efforts
During the ceremony, Her Excellency expressed gratitude to the engineers, workers and all those involved in the freeway's construction, commending their dedication despite challenges. Addressing the attendees, she acknowledged the public's unwavering support and pledged to address issues stemming from the project, particularly those affecting local farmers' access and rural road improvements.
Dr. Sadegh assured swift measures to resolve these concerns, including directives to enhance access to nearby villages and asphalt rural roads. She thanked the community for enduring disruptions during the construction process and supporting the nation's development goals.
Strategic Importance of Infrastructure
Highlighting recent achievements, Sadegh noted the completion of Section 5 of the Chabahar-Zahedan railway and the inauguration of a segment of the East-West Corridor connecting Sarakhs to Tamarchin. She stressed the importance of corridor projects in fostering economic growth, facilitating goods transit, promoting tourism, and enhancing passenger movement.
Sadegh also acknowledged the support of institutions like the Khatam Al-Anbia Construction Headquarters and Sepah Bank in executing such projects. She underscored that the demands of traders and businesses for efficient transportation align with Iran’s strategic transit goals, making infrastructure projects vital for the country’s resilience against sanctions.
Completion Goals
Looking ahead, Sadegh reaffirmed her commitment to completing the 110-kilometer Maragheh-Hashtroud freeway by the end of the 14th government. This freeway, an integral part of the East-West Corridor, is expected to significantly enhance connectivity and trade.
Currently, 6,000 kilometers of freeway are under construction nationwide, with East Azerbaijan province ranking third in freeway development. Sadegh expressed optimism that ongoing projects will elevate the province’s rank further.
Regional Benefits and Commitments
Bahram Sarmast, the Governor of East Azerbaijan, echoed Sadegh’s statements during the ceremony, emphasizing the strategic and economic significance of the Maragheh-Hashtroud freeway. He noted that this 29-kilometer section would reduce travel time and accidents while promoting trade and national security upon its eventual connection to the Tamarchin border.
Sarmast highlighted the province's infrastructure portfolio, including 313 kilometers of operational freeways, and ongoing projects such as the "Urumiah-Tabriz" and "Tabriz-Bazargan" freeways. He also stressed the importance of addressing the province’s extensive network of rural roads requiring reconstruction.
Focus on Safety and Tourism
Ahead of the Nowruz holiday season, Sadegh emphasized the importance of road safety and pledged efforts to eliminate accident-prone areas. She encouraged the public to drive cautiously, underscoring the value of every citizen’s life as essential to the nation's future.
The development of the Maragheh-Hashtroud freeway and other infrastructure projects reflects Iran’s commitment to economic growth and resilience, even in the face of international challenges.
