The highway functions as a critical north-south trade and transport artery, passing through major towns like Woldiya on the route to and from the region.

The highway functions as a critical north-south trade and transport artery, passing through major towns like Woldiya on the route to and from the region. For long-distance travelers, getting there from Addis Ababa generally involves a drive of about 8 to 9 hours, or a flight to nearby regional airports in Mek'ele, Lalibela, or Dessie.