Jbeil: Minister of Public Works and Transport, Fayez Rasamny, recently undertook a comprehensive field tour of the Jbeil district. Invited by MP Ziad Hawat, the minister was joined by Jbeil Municipality Head, Joseph Chami, along with municipal heads and local union representatives. The visit was organized to oversee ongoing development efforts and evaluate the district's infrastructure needs.
According to National News Agency - Lebanon, Minister Rasamny highlighted the Ministry's initiative to prioritize tourist areas ahead of the summer season. This approach is aimed at inspecting roads to ensure they are safe and accessible. 'We are visiting all Lebanese regions, but our current focus is on touristic areas ahead of the summer season, in order to evaluate the state of roads and ensure they are safe and functional,' Rasamny stated.
Rasamny further explained that Jbeil's infrastructure had been neglected for years, with the last major roadworks occurring in 2012. He noted the Ministry's commitment to identifying priorities and securing necessary support for the district this year and next. The delegation visited Saint Charbel Monastery in Annaya, where Rasamny inspected the road leading to the site, sharing a personal connection to the monastery.
Discussing Jbeil's broader challenges, Rasamny and MP Hawat set out to establish a clear set of priorities for the district. Rasamny pointed out that issues with infrastructure are prevalent across Lebanon, with many areas lacking essential projects for years. He emphasized the Ministry's goal to ensure equitable distribution of resources while addressing urgent needs.
The tour included an inspection of Jbeil Port, where the Ministry plans to assess its requirements for future support. MP Hawat emphasized the district's pressing infrastructure needs, particularly the rehabilitation of the Annaya road, which sees significant tourist traffic. He acknowledged the limited budget but stressed the importance of starting to address accumulated issues.
Hawat remarked on the role of public officials, stating, 'What we are doing is not a miracle, it is our duty.' He praised Rasamny for his dedication, highlighting the need for active leadership across government branches.
The delegation also visited the entrance of Aqoura, discussing road safety in mountainous areas, and held a meeting at Jbeil municipality to discuss infrastructure projects aimed at boosting tourism and economic activity. The tour concluded with a visit to Jbeil fishing port, where discussions focused on urgent repairs needed for the breakwaters and quay walls.
Minister Rasamny reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to addressing these needs as part of a broader support plan for small ports. The visit concluded with a luncheon hosted by MP Hawat, attended by various officials and local figures.