The Strategic Projects Department of the General Secretariat of the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine is continuing construction on the Autism Center in Basra Governorate. This center is considered one of the Shrine’s most important humanitarian and service initiatives, designed to support and care for children with special needs.

Engineer Muhammad Diaa Muhammad, head of the department, stated in an interview that work on the Autism Center is progressing at a steady and rapid pace, with the overall completion rate reaching approximately 85 percent. He explained that the project is being built on a plot of land measuring 1.25 hectares, with a total built-up area of 10,060 square meters spread across three floors.

He added that the project has entered its final stages, with both interior and exterior finishing nearing completion. The stone cladding of the facades and the installation of the glass curtain wall have been finalized. In addition, work on the drop ceilings, flooring, and staircases has been completed, while interior painting and the installation of elevators are currently underway.

The building will house classrooms and treatment halls of various sizes, a therapeutic swimming pool, a rehabilitation gymnasium, and specialized rooms for speech therapy. It will also include administrative offices and a restaurant to support the needs of staff and visitors.

Engineer Muhammad also noted that the project features green spaces and outdoor sports facilities, including two volleyball courts and a five-a-side football pitch, in order to create a well-rounded environment that promotes the physical and psychological development of the children receiving care.

This project is part of a broader initiative by the Imam Hussain Holy Shrine to implement service and social projects in various Iraqi governorates. The aim is to improve the overall standard of humanitarian, healthcare, and educational services across the country.