Every driver in the UAE knows the frustration of traffic jams, but in Sharjah, the situation is bordering on untenable. As The National reported yesterday, the average traffic speed in peak hours is now just 20 kph, and as slow as 10 kph along Al Wahda Street.
The gridlock in Sharjah is linked not only to its own success, but to the unrelenting growth of Dubai next door. Once seen as a more affordable, less stressful alternative, commuting from Sharjah is now the only viable option for an increasing number of people who work in Dubai but cannot afford to live there.
However, its infrastructure has failed to keep pace with the growth. The opening of the upgraded National Paints roundabout, expected soon, and other roadworks will ease the situation, but more is needed. If Dubai is part of the problem, it can also be part of the solution. An extension of the Metro into Sharjah would certainly help – as long as commuters can be convinced to forgo their cars.
