Along with these plans, we will enforce the new traffic law and force landlords to open garages under residential and office blocks. The idea of subterranean garages is very practical, especially in congested areas where space is at a premium. A multi-storey garage above ground would be a disaster in already congested areas. The Ataba garage is a case in point. Going underground will create more space for traffic and pedestrians alike, and free up space for green areas.
Urban planners concur.
I firmly believe we need more underground garages in places like Abdin Square and underneath the Ezbekiya Gardens. More multi-storey garages are also needed above ground. Thanks to the government's recent efforts, we now have a comprehensive database of all subterranean infrastructure that has been extremely helpful in drawing up the designs. With the help of foreign experts, we have also been able to overcome the problem of underground water by using diaphragm walls. Public fears of haphazard planning persist, however, especially now it is clear that the new extension added to the 6 October fly-over has failed to relieve traffic in targeted areas.