1.2115365-1749356574
Pedestrians cross the road near Ansar Mall in Sharjah. For illustrative purposes only. Image Credit: Atiq-ur-Rehman/Gulf News

Dubai: One of the busiest highways in Sharjah is set to temporary close in the next two weeks – and for good reason.

The Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has announced that it is installing a much-needed pedestrian footbridge near Ansar Mall, which connects Sharjah’s Al Nahda area with Al Mamzar across Al Ittihad Road.

Al Ittihad Road, which connects Dubai to Sharjah, has been a cause for concern among residents living in the area due to a number of pedestrian deaths over the years.

The last reported fatality occurred in November 2016, when a woman was run over by a vehicle as she crossed the road in front of Al Ansar Mall and Safeer Mall.

The area – known as a notoriously dangerous spot for pedestrians – is all set to become safer with the installation of a pedestrian bridge.  

Gulf News previously reported that the bridges is expected to be equipped with elevators and shaded walkways to ensure accessibility for elders, and for people with special needs.

On its official Twitter account, the Sharjah RTA said Al Ittihad Road will be partially closed from 3am to 9am on November 3 and November 10, which falls on a Friday.

The road was first closed on October 27.

Authorities are notifying motorists to take alternative roads, which according to the provided map, is highlighted in yellow.