The Gomspan–Smaquli road, a key route linking Erbil Governorate, Sulaimani Governorate, and the Raparin Independent Administration, has officially opened to citizens, following construction under the order of Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. The project was inaugurated in a special ceremony attended by the Prime Minister and local officials.
Prime Minister Barzani praised the project as the result of the hard work, dedication, and patriotism of the youth of Kurdistan. “One year after promising to build this road, we are fulfilling another commitment. Despite crises and economic challenges, we demonstrate that with strong will and devotion, nothing is impossible,” he said. He emphasized that the achievement reflects the resilience and determination of the people of Kurdistan.
The newly completed dual carriageway forms part of a larger infrastructure project beginning from Erbil and includes the road around Gomspan Dam. It will facilitate smoother travel between Erbil, Sulaimani, and the Raparin area, reducing travel time, easing traffic, and lowering the risk of accidents—a trend already observed across the Kurdistan Region following recent road development initiatives.
The project was initiated on October 16, 2024, with Prime Minister Barzani laying the cornerstone, and was implemented by the local Heman Group at a cost of 210 billion Iraqi dinars. It coincides with the development of Gomspan Dam as a strategic tourism and economic project, further boosting the region’s growth and attractiveness.
The Gomspan–Smaquli road also provides an improved route around the dam, enhancing both accessibility and the potential for tourism. Officials highlighted that the dual carriageway incorporates modern design standards, including safety features suitable for high-traffic areas.
Prime Minister Barzani reaffirmed that the project demonstrates the KRG’s commitment to building and strengthening infrastructure to serve citizens, promote regional development, and support long-term economic and social goals. The road is expected to have lasting benefits, improving connectivity, safety, and quality of life for residents while contributing to the growth of tourism and commerce in the area.
The completion of the Gomspan–Smaquli dual carriageway represents a significant step forward in the KRG’s ongoing efforts to modernize the region’s transportation network and provide sustainable, high-quality infrastructure for the people of Kurdistan.
