Accumulation of construction materials worsens traffic crisis in Hasakah

In recent months, al-Hasakah city has been facing a growing problem of roads being partially or completely blocked as a result of construction materials and debris left behind by reconstruction and building projects. This has intensified traffic congestion across the city and negatively affected residents' mobility.

The closures have impacted major and vital roads as well as secondary streets, often without prior warning signs or notices indicating that the roads were closed for construction work. This has hindered the movement of vehicles, cars, and pedestrians, creating considerable traffic disorder.

At the same time, the city has witnessed a noticeable increase in construction activity since the beginning of the year, despite the rising cost of building materials caused by customs duties imposed at border crossings.

According to the People's Municipality of al-Hasakah, approximately 43 construction permits had been issued between the start of 2026 and the preparation of this report.

The materials occupying public roads include steel bars, cement bags, gravel, sand, and construction machinery. In some cases, steel-cutting operations and workers' preparations are carried out in the middle of streets, directly obstructing traffic movement.

Residents have also complained that construction waste is often left at work sites after projects are completed, without proper cleaning or debris removal, further degrading the city's appearance and obstructing road use.

Despite repeated warnings issued by the People's Municipality to permit holders, stressing the need to avoid placing construction materials on roads or occupying sidewalks, violations continue to occur during construction activities.

Azmi Al-Sahu, a member of the Municipal Enforcement Committee in al-Hasakah, explained that morning and evening patrols regularly inspect neighborhoods and major streets to monitor such violations and prevent infringements during construction work.

Al-Sahu stated that permit holders are informed upon receiving their licenses that occupying sidewalks or streets with construction materials constitutes a violation subject to legal action.

He added that clear regulations require construction materials to be kept within the boundaries of the property or construction site without encroaching on public roads. However, some property owners and contractors fail to coordinate with the municipality in this regard.

The Municipal Enforcement Committee member confirmed that financial penalties are imposed on violators for occupying sidewalks and public streets with construction materials. The fine for a first offense is approximately 500,000 Syrian pounds, while repeat violations result in doubled penalties.

Al-Sahu also noted that some streets in the city are only six to eight meters wide, making the placement of construction materials on or alongside them particularly disruptive to traffic and a significant obstacle to vehicle movement.

He revealed that approximately 212 violations have been recorded against property owners and contractors for occupying sidewalks and major public roads.

According to Al-Sahu, these measures are part of broader efforts to regulate construction activities within the city and curb practices that negatively affect traffic flow and the overall urban landscape.

ANHA