Salik creates new bottlenecks in city

Dubai: Motorists living or working on Al Wasl Road and the Al Safa area expressed despair at the growing traffic jams at the First Interchange (Defence Roundabout) after the new toll gate at Al Safa Salik went operational on September 9.

Many motorists said they are now spending twice as much time as previously when crossing the interchange. Motorists coming from Shaikh Zayed Road or Doha Street from the Al Murooj Rotana side and wanting to avoid Al Safa Salik toll gate are now driving along the First Interchange towards Al Wasl Road.

Meera Al Shamsi, an Emirati bank employee, said she used to take the interchange coming from Al Murooj Rotana and head towards Al Wasl Road where she works.

"It used to take me 45 minutes roughly from my house to my workplace and in the worst of situations, it used to take me an hour or so. Now, it takes me exactly two hours to reach my workplace. The traffic on the interchange has became worse as motorists are using it to avoid the Al Safa toll gate," she said.

Losses

Rashid Farooq, a Pakistani pick-up driver, said tghe traffic situation on the interchange had become "unbearable" and a factor behind his loss.

"I used to do at least three to four trips to Al Wasl Road via the First Interchange transferring goods, but since Al Safa salik toll gate came into effect, I can barely do two trips as I get stuck in traffic. I have been suffering a loss. I hope there is a solution soon," he said.

Mohammad Mustafa, an Egyptian salesman, said traffic is becoming slower on the interchange every day, as many motorists, even those who have Salik tags, are trying to avoid paying the Dh4 and keeping it for the return trip.

"I have been taking the First Interchange often although I have Salik, but I take it when I am not in a hurry to reach my workplace. This way I save Dh4 every day," he said.

Reema, a Jordanian housewife, said road works on the interchange are adding to the already critical situation.

"Al Safa toll gate has not left any choice except the First Interchange for those who want to avoid it, but the currently ongoing road works and diversions on the bridge are making the situation even worse," she said.

Have you faced delays due to traffic congestion? Would you prefer using the new toll gates? Or have you discovered an alternative route which is more convenient? Tell us at letter2editor@gulfnews.com or fill in the form bellow to send your comments.