New Gomaspan–Smaquli Road to Transform Access and Tourism in Kurdistan

The Gomaspan–Smaquli Strategic Road Project - one of the Kurdistan Region’s most important infrastructure initiatives - is nearing completion and will soon open to traffic, significantly improving connectivity, tourism, and economic development.

The 22-kilometre road has been constructed to modern engineering standards, featuring two lanes in each direction, each 10 metres wide. The project, valued at approximately IQD 210 billion, has been implemented with the support of local labour and expertise.

Key structural components include 6 underbridges, 3 overbridges, and 70 box culverts. In addition, the project has incorporated retaining walls, crash barriers, traffic signage, and road markings.

The road has been built in three structural layers, using over 300,000 tonnes of asphalt, topped with a polymer surface layer to ensure long-term durability and performance.

The project has mobilised over 600 pieces of heavy equipment and employed 2,000 local workers, contributing significantly to job creation and the development of local technical capacity.

A unique feature of the route is its passage around the Gomaspan Dam, positioning it as a future tourism landmark within the Region. Once open, the road is expected to play a key role in reviving the tourism sector and attracting visitors to the area.

With over 90% of construction now complete, the road will soon be opened to the public, offering a safer, more efficient transport route and reducing congestion across the corridor.

 

Department of Media and Information