Sahara Centre, a leading family shopping and entertainment destination in Sharjah, has officially opened the Al Nahda pedestrian overpass for commuters.

With the opening of the bridge, which is accessible by elevators and staircases from both sides, the commuters can now cross the busy Al Nahda road using the walkway and gain direct access into Sahara Centre, said a Sahara Centre statement.

The bridge was installed last month under the supervision and guidance of a team of professional engineers appointed by Sahara Centre.

The overpass is built at an estimated cost of Dh7 million ($1.9 million) and has been installed at a height of 6.5 metres and spans 48 metres across the road.

The bridge comprises a structural steel frame, equipped with steel deck flooring and a metal panel wall with roof cladding.

Jean Pierre Nammour, managing director of Sahara Centre, said: 'The new pedestrian bridge is now operational and is a significant step towards providing an easy, safe and convenient option to the residents living in the Al Nahda neighbourhood.'

'The new walkway is a reflection of our commitment to the community and we are pleased to extend easier access to our customers. We are also thankful to various government departments for their support and co-operation in this endeavour,' he added.

Rima Chammas, marketing manager, Sahara Centre, said: “The bridge will not only avoid accidents but will also help control traffic congestion during peak hours and over the weekends.'

'People living in the Al Nahda area opposite Sahara Centre can now have easy access to the mall through the pedestrian bridge,' she noted.

The walkway bridge is part of Sahara Centre’s expansion plans with the Dh4 billion Sahara City project.-TradeArabia News Service