Barran Press
Brigadier General Abdulkhaleq al-Sheikh, Head of Operations for the Special Security Forces in Marib, confirmed that the Marib-Bayda road reopened on Sunday, June 9th, 2024, after comprehensive security measures were implemented to facilitate the passage of citizens.
In a statement to "Barran Press," al-Sheikh said, "Following the directives of the member of the Presidential Leadership Council, Governor of Marib, Major General Sultan al-Arada, the Marib-Bayda road was opened today after a series of security arrangements were put in place to ensure the smooth passage of citizens."
He explained that the road reopening followed the implementation of realistic security plans to facilitate citizen movement and ensure their safety, emphasizing the commitment of the Special Security Forces leadership and security officials to overcome any obstacles and streamline travel procedures for passengers along this route.
Al-Sheikh highlighted key measures undertaken to facilitate travel, including the expansion of checkpoints, road lanes, and women's inspection areas, as well as the widening of the distance between entry and exit points to ease the flow of traffic.
Earlier today, Governor al-Arada announced the reopening of the Marib-Bayda-Sana'a road, effective at noon, following the completion of necessary arrangements.
This announcement came during a meeting with representatives of a community initiative, where he emphasized the importance of community involvement in supporting humanitarian efforts and facilitating the reopening of closed roads between Yemeni cities, ending the suffering and risks faced by travelers using desert routes and strenuous alternative routes.
Residents and travelers confirmed the reopening of the Marib-Bayda-Sana'a road on Sunday, June 9th, 2024, with vehicles passing through shortly after the announcement by the member of the Presidential Leadership Council, following nearly three years of closure and its replacement with the desert route through Al-Jawf.
"Barran Press" obtained exclusive photos showing the first vehicle passing through the Marib-Bayda section of the road following the reopening, along with other vehicles, including heavy trucks.
The Marib-Bayda road was closed in 2021 following clashes between the Yemeni army and Houthi fighters, designated as a terrorist group by the international community, in the southern districts of Marib. The desert route between Marib, Al-Jawf, Nehm, and Sana'a was used as an alternative to the Bayda route.
Despite the announcement by local authorities on February 22nd of the unilateral reopening of the main road between Sana'a and Marib (Marib-Nehm-Sana'a), it remains closed after nearly three months, with the Houthis refusing to reciprocate.