Puntland has completed the technical studies and other essential preparations for a major road project linking Kalabayr and Xaar-xaar in the Nugaal region, bringing the proposed construction closer to implementation.
The Puntland Highway Authority (PHA) confirmed the progress after presenting a detailed report on the project to its Board of Directors, outlining the work completed so far and the plans being prioritised by the agency.
The report was presented during a board meeting chaired by Puntland Minister of Public Works Farah Awad Jama, who also serves as the board chair. The meeting brought together several senior government officials responsible for finance, planning and public administration.
PHA Chairman Dr Abdifitah Mohamed Sugulle briefed the board on the different stages of preparation for the Kalabayr–Xaar-xaar road, including the technical assessments required before construction can proceed.
He confirmed that all the preparatory activities and technical studies needed for the project had been completed, marking a significant step in Puntland’s efforts to advance the proposed road development.
The board meeting also provided an opportunity for the agency to update government officials on its ongoing activities and priority development plans, with the Kalabayr–Xaar-xaar project featuring among the matters presented.
Finance Minister Mohamed Farah Mahmoud and Planning, Economic Development and International Cooperation Minister Yusuf Ahmed Mahmoud Fatax attended the meeting, alongside Director General of the Presidency Aarshe Mohamed Said and Puntland State Bank Director General Faisal Abdullahi Warsame Murcanyo.
The roads authority was represented by its chairman, Dr Sugulle, Deputy Chairman Abdirizak Mohamed Xayir and Director of Engineering and Planning Eng. Abdimahad Huruuse.
The proposed road is expected to serve the Kalabayr and Xaar-xaar areas of Nugaal, with the completion of technical preparations laying the groundwork for the next phase of the project.
However, the authority did not disclose the road’s proposed length, the estimated construction cost or the expected completion date. It also did not indicate whether contractors had been selected or when work would begin.