Addis Ababa City officially launched the second round of the Corridor Development Project at the beginning of this week. This phase aims to develop eight major corridors in the city and is expected to elevate its status as a metropolis, making it more capable, livable, and suitable for the diverse activities carried out by the government, international organizations, and the private sector, among others.
The recently concluded corridor development activities in the metropolis have provided valuable lessons and experiences in transforming urban development and promoting the overall economic and social progress of the city. They have set a precedent for converting old, ramshackle neighborhoods into modern, suitable, and healthy urban areas.
The large number of people who flocked to the new public parks, plazas, and fountains following the inauguration clearly indicates that the corridor development is highly anticipated by the residents. Vehicles that once cluttered the roadsides are now able to park in well-managed parking lots throughout the city. Line taxis and city buses no longer need to stop in the middle of the roads, allowing for a smoother flow of metropolitan traffic, which is typically very busy.
Previously, traffic jams hampered the smooth flow of movement within the city, disrupting daily activities. Obstructing traffic in one area can affect the entire business landscape and daily life of residents, government agencies, and international organizations.
Currently, Addis Ababa is one of the largest metropolitan areas on both the continent and globally. It is not merely a large city with millions of inhabitants; its responsibilities make it a vital urban complex. Founded more than 135 years ago as the seat of the central government, Addis Ababa has undergone progressive changes and now hosts continental and global organizations like the African Union, Economic Commission for Africa, and other international institutions.
Furthermore, Addis Ababa serves as a hub for macroeconomic activities in Ethiopia, one of the five largest economies on the continent. The city handles more than half of the country’s trade exchanges, with many import and export operations based here. It also accommodates the largest concentration of industrial activities in Ethiopia.
Additionally, Addis Ababa is an important hub for tourism and international transportation, serving as a destination and transit point for several airlines from Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Passengers arrive for various purposes, including transit to other destinations or staying for work or leisure.
The metropolis is also a melting pot of culture, education, science, and similar activities for the entire nation. Given its myriad responsibilities, it is clear that the city must have an equivalent level of facilities and infrastructure development to effectively fulfill its roles.
In conclusion, the ongoing Corridor Development Project represents a crucial and timely initiative by the federal government and city administration, poised to elevate the city’s standards and effectively meet its diverse needs.
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD THURSDAY 10 OCTOBER 2024
