Busy intersection, roadway reopen in Baqubah

Photo By Spc. Kirby Rider | Baqubah Mayor Ahmed Hameed and Diyala Iraqi Police Chief Gen. Ghanem Al-Kurashi cut a ribbon marking the reopening of Kharesan Street to civilian traffic in Baqubah, Iraq, Jan. 28. The street was closed due to heavy attacks in the area, but reopened when the area became safer.  

BAQUBAH, IRAQ

01.28.2008

Story by Spc. Kirby Rider 

4th Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 2nd Infantry Division

BAQUBAH, Iraq – A busy intersection and roadway was reopened by the Iraqi government during a ceremony in the Shifta district of Baqubah, Iraq, Jan. 28.

Kharesan Street, a main roadway linking northern and southern Baqubah, was reopened for use by civilian vehicles.

The ceremony was attended by Baqubah Mayor Ahmed Hameed, Diyala Iraqi Police Chief Gen. Ghanem Al-Kurashi and local village leaders.

"We celebrate this day by opening this road," said Gen. Ghanem during a press conference before the ceremony. "We thank the people for cooperating with the Iraqi Police and the Iraqi Army."

The roadway was closed due to numerous attacks against civilians, Iraqi security forces and coalition forces in the area, including improvised explosive devices and small-arms fire. Once the area was cleared in a joint effort between the ISF and CF, the road was reopened.

"Opening this road helps the people get to the markets and will help the city become stable," said Ahmed. "We are especially thankful for the Iraqi security force's assistance."

• Date Taken: 01.28.2008
• Date Posted: 01.28.2008 12:25
• Story ID: 15819
• Location: BAQUBAH, IQ