Iraq's Longest Bridge Closed Due to Structural Collapses in Diyala

Authorities have completely closed the Hamrin Lake Bridge in Diyala Governorate to all vehicle traffic, including cars and trucks, following structural collapses in the embankment areas. The closure of the bridge, located in northeastern Diyala, has forced traffic to divert to the Imam Veys road. This detour has extended travel times between Baqubah, Khanaqin, and the Kurdistan Region by more than one hour beyond the standard 90-minute journey. With connecting roads, the bridge exceeds 7 kilometers in length and cost over 60 billion dinars. Although the project had not been officially handed over, it was opened for temporary use after rising lake waters damaged the previous bridge. Government officials are now coordinating with the Ministry of Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Works and the contracting company to initiate repairs and resolve the structural failures.