Traffic congestion in North and East Syria a growing concern for citizens and authorities

HASAKAHA, North and East Syria — There has been a marked increase in traffic congestion across North and East Syria, leading to frequent accidents and significant challenges for citizens trying to navigate the streets. In an interview with Co-Chair of the Transportation Directorate in Gozarto (Jazira) Canton, Hassan Muhammad, he confirmed that the traffic crisis, particularly in market areas, is due to the influx of cars into the region in recent years.

Muhammad noted that the Democratic Autonomous Administration of the Region of North and East Syria (DAARNES) has attempted to mitigate the issue by halting the import of cars manufactured before 2016. He suggested that constructing parking lots in markets or beneath bridges could alleviate some of the congestion, though he acknowledged the weak infrastructure in most cities as a persistent challenge.

Khalil, a resident of Zalin (Qamishli), highlighted the difficulty of implementing solutions due to the narrow streets. He proposed the establishment of parking garages at city entrances and the promotion of public transportation to ease the traffic burden within the city.