Iraq registered vehicles top 7 million, straining traffic management

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Ministry of Interior announced the total number of registered motor vehicles in the country has exceeded 7 million, raising concerns about traffic management and road capacity. Traffic Director General Major General Adil Samir said the current vehicle count surpasses road capacity by 300 percent. He noted that road infrastructure cannot keep pace with the growing number of vehicles, negatively affecting traffic flow. Officials reported significant congestion in driver's license and vehicle registration procedures, with processing times increasing as demand rises. The Traffic Directorate said new measures are being developed to streamline registration and licensing operations. Baghdad authorities said they would review transportation plans to address the city's traffic congestion. No further details on the proposed measures were immediately available.