On Saturday, the Director General of the Libya Development and Reconstruction Fund, Belgassem Haftar, inaugurated the Balkhudur Bridge in Derna, marking a new milestone in the city’s ongoing recovery and reconstruction efforts.
The bridge, located at the southwestern entrance to the city, was completed as part of a broader strategy to rebuild key infrastructure destroyed during the catastrophic floods of 2023.
In a statement, the Fund described the project as one of the most vital components of Derna’s reconstruction plan, embodying its vision of sustainable and comprehensive urban development.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by a number of local officials, tribal elders, and representatives of public service, security, and volunteer institutions who have supported reconstruction work in the city.
The new bridge is expected to improve traffic flow, facilitate transportation of goods and people, and support Derna’s economic revival by connecting previously isolated neighborhoods.
According to the Fund, the project reflects its commitment to rebuilding infrastructure to the highest technical and engineering standards, while promoting safety, accessibility, and resilience against future challenges.
Belgassem Haftar emphasized that the bridge’s completion demonstrates the progress and determination behind the national reconstruction drive, led by the Fund under direct supervision from the Libyan authorities. He highlighted the collaborative efforts of engineers, contractors, and local authorities, noting that such cooperation is essential for turning the government’s reconstruction vision into tangible realities that serve citizens.
Haftar reaffirmed the Fund’s pledge to continue implementing projects across Derna and other affected cities, focusing on modern infrastructure that supports long-term urban growth and strengthens public confidence in the rebuilding process.
