In an extraordinary display of community spirit, residents of Rustaq have carved a 10km road through the mountains, significantly shortening the distance between villages in the wilayat and Jabal Shams from 450km to just a few kilometres. This herculean task has also resulted in connecting the governorates of Dhahirah and Dakhliyah to South Batinah via Jabal Shams. Speaking to , Nasser al Hatemi, project financier and supervisor, said, “Though known for its rich history and natural beauty, Rustaq faced a challenge: the lack of direct access to the governorates of Dhahirah and Dakhliyah.
For many years, residents and visitors endured long, arduous journeys to travel between these regions. The solution lay in a daring vision – a 10km mountain road cutting through the formidable terrain.” Hatemi informed that the idea emerged at a community meeting where elders, local leaders and enthusiastic youth gathered to discuss the pressing need for better infrastructure.
“The consensus was clear – building this road would not only reduce travel time but also boost trade, tourism and emergency response capabilities.” The project resulted in laying a 10km dirt road linking the villages of Al Marat and Karb in the wilayat of Rustaq to areas on Jabal Shams. According to Hatemi, a proposal for the road was tabled as early as 1970.
Over the years, demand for the road was raised repeatedly, resulting in an approval in the early 2000s. “The project was included in a tender along wi.
