As part of Iraq’s broader urban renewal campaign, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has officially launched the construction of the Al-Kriat Bridge over the Tigris River—marking a major step in the revitalisation of Baghdad and the historic city of Kadhimiya.
The project will be executed by Turkey’s HSY Yapi Insaat in partnership with Lebanon’s Khatib & Alami, reflecting growing regional cooperation in infrastructure development.
Strategically located within the long-closed “Fifth Division” military zone, the bridge will serve as a gateway to a transformative redevelopment plan. The 400-dunum area will be converted into a modern hub featuring public services, religious and cultural centres, and accommodation facilities for pilgrims.
During the launch, PM Al-Sudani praised the coordinated efforts of the Prime Minister’s Office, the Baghdad Municipality, the Ministry of Housing, the Investment Commission, and Iraq’s religious endowments. He reiterated the government’s commitment to a district-specific, realistic, and strategic urban development plan.
The Prime Minister also announced that the Fifth Division zone is now open for investment through a transparent, non-residential framework. One of its cornerstone features will be a 12,500 m² national museum dedicated to documenting the crimes of Iraq’s former dictatorship—intended as a space of memory, education, and national reckoning.
Key Highlights from PM Al-Sudani’s Remarks:
Baghdad’s population has surpassed 9.5 million, yet infrastructure investment has lagged behind urban growth.
Kadhimiya, historically underserved, is now undergoing a comprehensive redevelopment aligned with its Islamic heritage and role as a religious destination.
The “Baghdad is More Beautiful” campaign (Phases 1 and 2) reflects a unified vision integrating municipal, ministerial, and national plans.
All new developments will adhere to Islamic architectural principles, ensuring both aesthetic and cultural integrity.
The campaign will also improve essential services in neighbourhoods, schools, and public institutions across Kadhimiya.
The Al-Kriat Bridge will play a key role in Baghdad’s Phase 2 traffic decongestion plan, connecting central and northern districts with major routes such as Mohammed Al-Qasim Expressway and the Army Canal.
Other Ongoing Projects in the Kadhimiya Development Plan Include:
Expansion and rehabilitation of 15 major roads across five districts
Construction of 38 new schools and restoration of 4 historic institutions
Upgrading 12 residential zones through paving and resurfacing works
Development of public parking areas, overpasses, and recreational facilities
Creation of six new city entrances
Upgrades to sewage and water supply infrastructure, and relocation of key government offices beyond city limits
(Source: Prime Minister’s Office – PMO)
