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| Iraq
Getting Around - Internal Travel |
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Air
Iraq continues to undergo a period of transition following the United
States led war against Saddam Hussein’s regime
in March / April 2003. Most of the country’s political, physical,
social and economic infrastructures have, by and large, been destroyed
and need to be rebuilt.
The United States of America has formed the Office
of Reconstruction and Humanitarian Assistance (ORHA) to administer
the country on an interim basis, provide humanitarian aid, rebuild
infrastructure and help establish a representative government. As
a result of the uncertain situation, some of the following information
may be variable or inaccurate.
Aircraft
are not generally allowed into
Baghdad. However, before restrictions there were regular flights
between Baghdad, Al Basrah and Mosul.
Road
Travel by road is not wholly advised
at present, due to the continuing threat of car jacking, robbery
and random attacks, these have often occurred on the Baghdad - Amman
highway in particular. Road closures are also ordinary.
The traffic in Iraq drives on the right. There
are 36,500 kilometres (22,680 miles) of road. Major routes are from
Baghdad to Kirkuk, Arbil and Zakho, Baghdad to the Jordanian frontier,
Baghdad to Kanaquin (Iranian border), Baghdad to Hilla and Kerbela,
and Baghdad to Al Basrah and Safwan (Kuwait border).
Bus
Bus services run from Baghdad and other major cities.
Taxi
Taxi services are available both in cities and for transit. Fares
should be decided in advance. Metered taxis charge twice
the amount which is shown on the meter. Tipping is unnecessary.
Car hire
Car hire is available at the airport and in Baghdad.
Documentation
An International Driving Permit is required as well as 3rd Party
insurance.
Rail
Rail services are serviced by the State Enterprise
for Iraqi Railways. The country
has over 2,000 kilometres (1,242 miles) of track, most of which
is standard gauge. A further 300 kilometres (200 miles) or so is
under construction.
The main route is from the Syrian Arab Republic border at Tel-Kotchek
to Mosul, Baghdad and Al Basrah. Trains also run from Baghdad to
Arbil and Kirkuk. A service operates 3 times daily between Baghdad
and Al Basrah. Some sleeping cars, restaurants and air conditioned
coaches are accessible.
Please not that numerous tracks were destroyed
during the fighting and it is uncertain if any passenger services
are running at all.
Urban
Baghdad has a varied bus system
with double decker's, and also private minibuses and share taxis.
Bus tickets should be pre purchased at kiosks and a metro is under
construction. |
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