Advancement in infrastructure contributes significantly to the economic development of a given country; and the economic development of a certain country can indicate how well that country has worked in infrastructure expansion and development such as roads, transportation, water, telecommunication and electricity among others that are crucial to support economic activities.
Historical sources indicated that in the remote past, where ancient civilizations flourished, the level of development of those city states manifested through the infrastructure development of their cities and the lifestyle of the then society.
This is confirmed by archeologists and historians. For instance, the archeological findings of both the Roman and Greek civilization still confirm the kind of lifestyle their citizens used to lead and the level of their economic progress.
The ancient city of Rome is a marvel of urban planning, architecture and engineering. According to historical documents, the city was built on seven hills and its capital city, Rome, was the center of the Roman Empire. This witnesses how well the capital city was structured and to what extent its leaders were committed to ensure quality life to the people.
This excellence in urban planning, architecture and engineering is still manifesting itself in various capital cities of the world.
The various corridor developments in cities reflect the dedication of their populations and are an indication of the government’s values, priorities, and vision for a better future. In other words, the quality and design of infrastructure, such as roads, public transportation, and utilities, reflect the city`s priorities and values. The layout and designs of corridors in these cities also reflect the city’s urban design philosophy, such as promoting walkability, bikeability, or accessibility. A city that prioritizes pedestrian-friendly design may create wide sidewalks and pedestrianized zones.
In this regard, Addis Ababa, the capital city of Ethiopia and “the political capital of Africa” due to its historical, diplomatic, and political significance for the continent, had been far behind the aforementioned facts. Despite the fact that it is the economic and political center of Ethiopia and the seat of the African Union, most of its infrastructure, urban planning, and architecture fail to fit its name –Addis Ababa—New Flower. This is especially true in the Arat Kilo and Piassa areas, which are the heart of the City and places where historical landmarks are found.
The old and shanty houses that used to dominate the innermost parts of Piassa and Arat Kilo had distorted the true images of the City for long. Poor urban planning together with absence of corridor developments, informal businesses carried out in public spaces by street vendors, limited green spaces, bicycle lanes and absence of public service facilities (including proper restrooms) had created a mess on the already narrow pedestrian pathways.
The narrow Piassa- Arat Kilo road had no capacity to accommodate the ever growing number of Addis Ababa`s vehicles. This was another challenge for traffic flow and had its own side effects on the socio-economic development of the city. However, following the government’s dedication and the active involvement of the public, city`s corridor development project is totally transforming the previous landscape of the city and Addis Ababa is on the right track to reclaiming its proper name- New Flower.
Fitsum Hailu, is a resident of Addis Ababa and a merchant in Arat kilo area. When asked by The Ethiopian Herald about his observation concerning the corridor development program and Addis Ababa`s new look, he expressed his feeling with excitement.
“There was no time where I thought Arat kilo or Piassa would get this new look. I never expected the corridor development scheme to recreate Addis Ababa. When the government took the initiative to bring about radical change in the City, I was suspicious about its success. This is especially true when I heard the project would take a few months. However, my suspicion is disproved by all the radical changes that are now visible in the two areas. Every day is becoming a new day in Piassa and Arat Kilo. All activities undertaken under the corridor development projects are amazing and full of surprises.”
Tefera Ayenew, a civil servant, was also approached by this reporter to hear his reflection regarding the progress witnessed in Addis Ababa and all the corridor development projects. According to him, most of Addis Ababa`s landscapes were once dominated by an age-old structure, substandard houses, narrow streets for vehicles and pedestrians.
Due to this factor, one can visibly see the contrasting image of Addis Ababa. “Some areas in the city are highly developed, roads and pedestrian pathways are well established to meet the standard of the capital city, and other areas that failed to fit the average standard. However now, I am witnessing Addis Ababa`s rebirth with a new identity. All the corridor development activities that are being carried out all over the city are surprising. The dedication of contractors and the commitment of those individuals engaged in the development project to effectively finalize it on the set time schedule and make it a success is beyond my expectation. Every morning is new in Arat Kilo.”
Indeed, all the corridor development activities that are being accomplished in the City are real manifestations of government`s dedication to ensure socio-economic and psychological relief of its residents and keeping Addis a vibrant African Capital city.
As indicated by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, the efforts to beautify Addis Ababa will make the City comfortable to its residents and ensure the determination to build a smart city. Premier also added that the progress which is being witnessed on the corridor development has been carried out smoothly and efficiently according to the scheduled plan.
Starting from the first time the corridor development was launched, activities have been carried out in a coordinated manner. In addition to beautifying the City, the project has also created job opportunities for several Ethiopians.
The project focuses on road expansion, including adding more lanes to the existing roads, gentrification and creating connections. When the project is finalized, it will connect various parts of the city, with corridors extending from Piassa to Arat Kilo, Arat Kilo to Bole Bridge, interconnecting Bole Bridge with CMC and Bole Terminal to other key areas. The project also includes upgrading outdated drainage systems and utility networks to improve the standard of the City.
By doing so and enhancing its aesthetic values, the project has aimed to promote tourism in the historic city – Addis Ababa, ultimately boosting its economic progress.
BY LEULSEGED WORKU
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 15 JUNE 2024
