The "Make Your Mark" association, led by MP Elias Hankach, and the "Our Environment" association, headed by Youssef Sharbaty, have launched the first phase of a project to install solar-powered lighting along the Metn Expressway, a key highway connecting coastal Metn to its central and mountainous areas.

The initiative, carried out in partnership with MTV and supported by a group of businessmen and philanthropists in the Metn district, aims to enhance road safety and security after years of darkness along the route. MTV has pledged to cover part of the costs for the upcoming phases.

The first phase involves installing 75 solar-powered streetlights from Baabdat to Roumieh, with two additional phases planned to extend the lighting across the entire expressway. The project will cover areas from Jdeideh through Biaqout, Bsalim, Roumieh, Mar Chaaya, Broummana, and Aatchaneh, reaching Baabdat.

“This is a vital highway used by thousands of vehicles daily, yet it has remained unlit for years,” Hankach said. “Our goal is to enhance road safety, reduce traffic accidents and their consequences, bolster security, and curb theft and assaults. The project will also help boost tourism and stimulate economic activity in the district.”

Hankach added that the initiative is part of a broader effort to rehabilitate the expressway, which previously saw the installation of reflective road markers along the median.

Sharbaty emphasized the urgency of the project, citing frequent accidents and thefts in the area.

“Lighting this key road, located at the heart of the Metn district, has become a necessity. That’s why we took the initiative,” he said.

He noted that the project was made possible through donations from dedicated supporters, including MP Hankach, businessman Samir Saliba, and MTV.

“We secured the necessary funding from committed contributors and launched the first phase. Our hope is to complete the second and third phases soon, ensuring the entire highway is illuminated.”