On Sunday, the Tripoli Security Directorate announced the temporary closure of the highway beneath the June 11 Bridge, following severe flooding caused by heavy rainfall. The closure, affecting traffic in both directions, has led authorities to urge citizens to use alternative routes to avoid further congestion.
In a statement issued by the Directorate’s Traffic Affairs Office, officials emphasized that the measure was necessary to ensure the safety of drivers as water accumulation made the road impassable. Traffic patrols have been deployed across the city to redirect vehicles toward safer routes, but significant congestion has already been reported in many of Tripoli’s main streets.
One of the most heavily impacted areas is the Shatt Road near Mitiga International Airport, where traffic has slowed to a standstill as drivers navigate detours. The closure of the highway, known locally as Al-Bevi, has further complicated mobility in the capital, exacerbating an already challenging traffic situation during Libya’s rainy season.
This latest incident underscores persistent infrastructure issues in Tripoli, where drainage systems are frequently overwhelmed by sudden rainfall. These shortcomings not only disrupt daily life but also expose broader vulnerabilities in the city’s ability to handle extreme weather conditions.
As authorities work to clear the water and reopen the highway, citizens are being urged to remain patient and stay updated on traffic advisories. Meanwhile, the incident has reignited calls for significant infrastructure investment to address chronic flooding and improve Tripoli’s overall resilience to seasonal weather challenges.