SECTION 3 : Traffic Rules
QCCI meet debates traffic woes
Web posted at: 11/23/2006 2:15:47
Source ::: The Peninsula
Participants discuss traffic problems at a meeting hosted by the QCCI, yesterday.
DOHA • The Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) yesterday hosted a meeting of leaders from the Traffic and Patrol Department and representatives of contracting and transport companies.
The meeting discussed the problems and obstacles faced by businessmen over the fixed times for heavy vehicle to ply and the maximum weights allowed.
The meeting, headed by Ali Abdul Latif Al Muhannadi, head of the QCCI Services Committee, was attended by Mohammed bin Towar Al Kuwari, the Chamber's Honourable Treasurer, Deputy Director of the Traffic and Patrol Department Brigadier Mohammed Abdullah Al Malki, and head of the Planning and Security Department, Colonel Mohammed Abdul Rahim Marafia, among others.
The meeting witnessed heated discussions focused on two main points. The first one was on recognising all the obstacles that the private sector faces while the second point asked for the formation of a committee to follow up these problems and find mechanisms for solutions.
Replying to the questions, Mohammed Abdullah said that most of the accidents caused by heavy vehicles are due to misuse of the trucks. Most accidents took place during the day because of high speed.
Giving an example, he said one truck had collided with a bus leaving six people dead. The reason behind the accident was the driver was asleep at the wheel.
Regarding allowable weights, he said that the law has decided on the matter.
However, the Chamber can write to the concerned authority to improve the situation..
As for heavy vehicles in general, he said there are other authorities which should be consulted in the matter like Ashghal, the Urban Planning Authority and the General Organisation for Standards and Metrology.
Potholes make driving on Industrial Area roads a nightmare
Web posted at: 12/14/2006 3:38:43
Source ::: The Peninsula
A deep pothole seen filled with rainwater on a main street in Industrial area.
DOHA • Driving has become a nightmare on the roads of Industrial area.
With the black topping peeling off and dotted by potholes, the road network of Industrial area was already in bad shape. Now, the recent rains have aggravated the situation. The potholes have turned in to big craters. Vehicles are struggling through the potholed roads at snail pace, causing heavy traffic congestion during peak hours. Internal roads have virtually turned into cesspools. Adding to the motorists' woe is the ongoing dig up works at various points by different agencies.
Al Athiyah Main Street, Street Numbers 15 to 23 and interior streets like No.15, 41 Roundabout, 47 Roundabout, 15, 39,29 and 26 are the worst-hit.. Accidents have become an everyday affair on these roads.
The entire stretch of the 2 km-long Al Athiyah Street is dotted with deep potholes. Asphalting has been peeled off at several stretches. The deep craters, filled with rain water pose a death trap to the speeding vehicles.. Driving pick-up vans and light vehicles have become more risky.
"Driving in the route has become a dreadful experience. Drivers are forced to apply sudden brakes to avert a rut, often leading to a collision. With several stretches of main road lacking proper light, nigh driving is more dangerous", said a regular commuter in the route.
Asphalting on a large area of internal roads, including street no 10, where the Qatar Technical Inspection Company situates, has been washed away in the rain.
Meanwhile, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) officials attributed the bad shape of roads to the overloading heavy trucks." Heavy trucks are carrying almost the double of the total permissible weight. This is causing early damage to the roads. Though we had warned about the possible damage caused to the overloading trucks, an effective mechanism is yet to be adopted to book the offenders, said a top Ashghal official.
He said that the maintenance of interior roads is supposed to take care by the Municipal authorities. For the maintenance of main roads, Ashghal has already embarked on a QR7mn project. The work will start once the Asian Games is over, he added.
Ashghal counters public criticism
Web posted at: 12/27/2006 2:49:3
Source ::: The Peninsula
Doha • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has said that it would respond positively to the criticism that it had failed to combat the problem of waterlogging during the rainy days.
Reacting to the sharp public criticism, Asghal yesterday came out with a detailed explanation: "The recent rainfall during the first and second weeks of this month evoked a lot of criticism from the public, when the defects of discharging rain water from the streets and main roads were exposed. The Authority faced lot of criticism from the public because of pilling rainwater in many areas. Ashghal welcomes all types of criticisms and takes it as an opportunity to correct mistakes.
“However, this issue needs objective assessment. Discharging rainwater is a permanent problem that can't be solved in a day or two. The issue may arise in the coming years also in lesser volume. Ashghal is a newly established institution, which has started executing its project just 20 months before. It has a plan to overcome the issue of draining rainwater from the streets and main roads,” the statement said..
The statement pointed out that the new roads and streets recently opened by Ashghal do not have the problem of gathering or discharging of rainwater due to the availability of integrated network to discharge groundwater and surface water. Suhaim bin Hamad Street and Ahmed bin Ali Street, where rainwater did not gather, are examples. It is the same case with the recently opened first phase of Airport Main Road (from Airport Intersection to Salemein Signal).
“A simple comparison of the condition of these streets in the past and their present condition confirms the effectiveness of Ashghal projects. Bin Omran Roundabout, which is now converted to signalised intersection, was having the problem of rainwater gathering, creating a lot of traffic problem. It was the same case with Shura Roundabout and Airport Roundabout. Now, these streets do not face such problems.
“We do not undermine that rainwater were gathered in two locations on Al Waab Street. One was at Al Manasir Interchange where works are not yet completed and it was already announced that the works would be completed only after Asian Games. There was also a small gathering of rainwater near Carrefour. This was due to the lack of side pit on the street for gathering rainwater and now its works are going on,” said the statement
These issues are duly considered in the new road projects executed by Ashghal within its First Five Year Plan. The new projects include reconstruction and renewal of all infrastructure networks including the networks for gathering surface water and groundwater.
The road projects consist of a major portion of the budget of Five Year Plan. A big amount of QR14bn is budgeted for executing 40 major projects. Once these projects are completed, people can reach any point of the state very easily, as they connect all the four directions of the state together and they will have comprehensive network for discharging rainwater.
It is natural that as there is shortage of water discharge network now, the rainwater draining is done using tankers and there is an emergency committee consisting of members from various authorities like Ashghal, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture, which takes every effort for siphoning of rainwater from various parts of the state.
“During the recent rainfall, Ashghal's Maintenance and Operation Department of Drainage Affairs worked round the clock. Education City, Old Al Rayyan, Al Bida, a part of Khalifa Town, a part of Al Luqta, Al Sadd, a part of Al Nasr Street, Bin Mahmood, Mushierab, Souqs Area, Rawdatul Khail Street, Al Asmakh Street, a part of Dafna, Al Mamura, Al Waab, Central Market, Ras Abu Aboud, Al Shafi area and Grand Hamad Street were the areas covered under the network for discharging surface water and rainwater. It may be noted that the areas that do not cover under the network are under the sphere of their respective Municipalities,” Ashghal clarified.
SECTION 4 : Ashghal Organization
Ashghal reconstitutes organisational structure
Web posted at: 1/13/2008 4:7:16
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • To cope with Qatar's rapid developments in the infrastructure, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), in coordination with Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA) has restructured its activities. The new organizational structure of Ashghal, will come to effect from February 1, 2008.
The organizational restructuring was done by an international company after a thorough study and discussion with all concerned. The new organizational structure is divided into four major sectors including Infrastructure Affairs, Building Affairs, Assets Management and Support Affairs.
Regarding infrastructure affairs, the existing Road Affairs and Drainage Affairs are merged in this with one department each for designs, roads and drainage.
The Assets Management is the section related to operations and maintenance, which was so far managed by road affairs and drainage affairs, creating a kind of duplication in the maintenance of projects. Now it has been separated in such a way that the operations and maintenance will be a different entity supervised by a separate section to monitor the performance of projects after completion. The Assets Management comprises engineering department, and operation & maintenance department of roads and drainage. However, the Building Affairs did not undergo any major change in the process.
The Support Affairs contains all departments related to provide administrative supports to the Authority including Finance Department, Human Resources Department, Information System and Telecommunications Department, Corporate Development Department and General Services Department. All the four sectors will have a Chief Operations Officer.
The newly evolved Engineering Support Services and Contracts Affairs will also have Chief Operations Officer. The Engineering Support will provide all technical services to Ashghal's operation in terms of planning, estimation and documentation of projects. Whereas the Contracts Engineering department is specialized to prepare project contracts, contract control, identify the problems and find solutions related to the contracts.
The new organizational structure also contains three major departments at the top of the pyramid. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - a replacement of the existing position Managing Director, will directly follow the Public Relations Department, Quality, Safety & Environment Department and Secretariat General for Tender Committees. The department of quality, safety & environment (QSE) is responsible for the quality control of Ashghal projects at sites and offices. The environment section will coordinate with the Supreme Council for Environment and Natural Reserves (SCENR) to ensure the environment friendliness of Ashghal projects.
The Secretariat General for Tender Committee is divided into three main committees. At the top of the organizational structure is Board of Directors to whom the CEO, the Legal Affairs and the Internal Audit will be directly reporting.
Mawlawi appointed Acting MD of Ashghal
Web posted at: 12/19/2008 2:44:31
Source ::: THE PENINSULA
DOHA: Nasser Ali Abdullah Mawlawi (pictured) has been appointed Acting Managing Director of Public Works Authority (Ashghal).
The appointment was made by an order issued by the Minister of Municipal and Urban Planning, H E Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin Khalifa Al Thani, who is also Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Public Works Authority and the Urban Planning and Development Authority.
Mawlawi, who is in his mid-forties, got a degree in electrical engineering from Boston University in 1987. He joined the engineering and works unit of the Qatar Armed Forces as Engineer Officer in 1988 and served in the army until 2003, rising to the rank of Colonel Engineer.
He was then deputed to the Organising Committee of the Asian Games Doha 2006, as CEO of facilities and projects management, in which post he served from June 2003 to June 2007.
In June 2007, he joined Barwa as the CEO of Barwa City project and served the company till this new assignment.
SECTION 5 : Salwa Road News
Ashghal chief defends against CMC criticism
Web posted at: 12/28/2006 2:26:28
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin, Managing Director, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) took serious exceptions with Central Municipal Council (CMC) members' criticism that Ashghal was apathetic in maintaining its roads.
Reacting to CMC members' criticism, Al Khayarin said majority of the council members were not aware of the development activities that are being carried out at their respective areas.
He said that many truck drivers were using the roads under construction, before they were thrown open for traffic. This is one of the main reasons for the damage of roads. The councillors who criticize Ashghal are not cooperating to book these law-breakers.
Regarding Salwa road's poor condition, Al Khayarin said the contract for the road construction was signed in 2003, much before the establishment of Ashghal. The company which took care of the design part of the road is an internationally reputed agency. However, Ashghal has set up an expert committee to look in to the issue.
Al Khayarin said Ashghal's prestigious Five Year Plan Project was prepared in consultation with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture (MMAA(). He wanted CMC members to co-operate with Ashghal's project rather than levelling baseless charges against it.
Ashghal panel to look into Salwa Road issue
Web posted at: 12/26/2006 1:48:56
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • In view of widespread criticism against the bad shape of International Salwa Road, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has set up an expert committee to look into the issue.
Jamal Sherida Al Kabi, Director, Project Department, Roads Affairs, expressed hope that the committee would submit its report by the end of January.
The panel includes the nominees of Ashghal, Quality standard laboratory and road designers and Consultants.
Al Kabi said the reconstruction of Salwa Road will begin soon after Ashghal received the report.
The 55 km road is dotted with deep potholes. It may be either due to the design problem or due to a faulty execution, he said.
CMC-Ashghal row hots up
Web posted at: 2/3/2007 2:7:49
Source ::: The Peninsula
muddy hurdles: A bulldozer clearing mud at one of road constructions sites in Doha. Ashghal is currently under the microscope for the slow progress and poor quality of work..
DOHA • The ongoing spat between The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and Central Municipal Council (CMC) took a new turn, with more CMC members coming out against Ashghal, yesterday.
Speaking to Al Sharq, CMC members attributed the undue delay in Ashghal projects to awarding works to incompetent contractors. They also alleged that it was the lack of proper monitoring of the construction works that are leading to the premature damage of Ashghal's prestigious projects.
The council members also wanted Ashghal to alert CMC before embarking on a development projects.
Ibrahim Al Ibrahim, the CMC member representing Murhia area, said the quality of several road projects are not up-to-the mark. For instance, the University road project, which was completed five months ago, is in bad shape already, he said.
Essa Al Kuwari, deputy chairperson, CMC said Ashghal was trying to shirk away from its responsibility in the Salwa Road issue.
The case of Salwa road is a classic example that what would be the fate of a project, if it was carried out without proper supervision.
Al Kuwari wanted Ashghal to inform CMC before carrying out its all major projects, especially the road projects. The several hassles plaguing the Airport Intersection project, Landmark Intersection, Ahmed bin Ali road and Al Manassir Road, could have been avoided if Ashghal had informed CMC in advance, he said.
"Contracting companies are bidding for more and more projects. But they often fail to deploy competent work force. This is one of the major reasons that had led to the delay in the completion of projects.",said Jassim Al Malki, Chairman, general service, CMC.
In several cases, the contractors are paying penalty to Ashghal. He wanted Ashghal to set up a separate team to monitor the progress of its various projects.
Role of CMC being ignored: Official
Web posted at: 2/3/2007 1:51:25
Source ::: The Peninsula
Essa Al Kuwari
DOHA • Deputy Chairman of the outgoing Central Municipal Council (CMC) Essa Al Kuwari said in an interview to Al Sharq said that senior officials of the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) have never really accepted the fact that the CMC has a role to play in civic affairs.
He said: "Some Ashghal officials have never accepted our role and do not want to discuss issues like projects with us. Also, the CMC has never claimed that it was behind raising the issue of Salwa Road."
Salwa Road has become a nightmare for drivers due to the heavy rains which washed away much of the blacktop. Speaking on the upcoming elections, Essa said the next session of the CMC should be a good one and the Council will reap the benefits of past sessions. The third session of the CMC will sit from April 18, 17 days after the elections.
Essa said that should he win from his constituency, he will present a proposal in the next session which will show how the CMC actually works.
CMC, Ashghal locked in dispute over Salwa Road
Web posted at: 1/27/2007 1:50:25
Source ::: The Peninsula
Fahad A M Al Suwailem
DOHA • The simmering dispute between the Central Municipal Council (CMC) and the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has come to a head over the Salwa Road issue.
One of the city's main thoroughfares, Salwa Road has become almost unmotorable following the recent rains. The road is marked by potholes and craters, making driving a risky proposition.
In a recent meeting, the CMC made it a point to let Ashghal know that the road falls under its jurisdiction as it is in the public interest. CMC General Secretary Fahad A M Al Suwailem has in fact dashed off a letter to a senior official in Ashghal's Technical Affairs Department, Ahmad Sulatan Al Kuwari, to provide all documents related to the Salwa Road project.
The rains had washed away almost the entire blacktop and Ashghal has blamed private contractors for the subsequent shortcomings stating their work had been shoddy.
Fahad told The Peninsula yesterday: "In a recent meeting, the CMC decided that we should ask Ashghal for all related documents, which will include papers related to the tendering process and design. Ashghal is yet to reply but they also have a committee of their own and are discussing the issues."
He said that Ashghal had never raised any issues on whether the CMC had any say on the matter or not. "Our statement was just an explanation of where we stand," said Fahad.
Incidentally, Article 8 of Law No 12 (1998) specifically states the CMC is an independent entity. "It is totally free to practice its responsibilities without any interference. The Council has the right to discuss all municipal problems," the law says.
Flaws in Salwa road pavement construction
Web posted at: 2/6/2007 3:46:28
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The Qatar General OrganiSation for Standards and Metrology (QGOSM) has said that there was clear evidence of a structural failure in the construction of the pavements of Salwa International Highway.
Attending a joint meeting of concerned officials, convened by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) to look into the massive cracks developed on Salwa International High way, the QGOSM nominees said that there was very clear evidence of extensive fatigue cracking. At the meeting they expressed their serious concern about the use of the Type 5 pavements utilising a specific crack-arrest- layer (GSB).
Top Ashghal officials, who attended the meeting, wanted the Parson International Ltd (PIL), the company responsible for the design work for phase 1 of Salwa International Highway, to clarify the details of the joint interface between Type 5 pavement and the full depth construction type 1 pavement. They also asked the company why a full-depth construction had not been adopted in accordance with Qatar Highway Design Manual (QHDM).
The PIL clarified that the pavement design was done according to the findings of a report prepared on behalf of Roads Department of Government of Qatar.
Henry Saville, currently Parsons Sector manager for Roads and Highways in Europe, said that though the PIL did not agree with the contents of the report, they had been required to base their design on the contents of the ERI report which stated that the structure of the existing road pavement was adequate for the traffic loading foreseen.
Saville, who said that he was responsible for the design works of the highway, added that the design thickness of the required granular sub base layer was increased by 20 per cent in order to accommodate any increase in traffic as well as to allow for then likelihood of overloaded trucks and tyre pressures in excess as anticipated by ERI report.
Responding to a query from Ashghal authorities, the PIL confirmed that a `crack arresting layer' was not included in the pavement type in the Qatar Highway Design Manual (QHDM). It said that a granular subbase crack arresting layer, which was used in Salwa Road project, had been used in road pavement rehabilitation in at least three other nations including Vietnam, Greece and Romania and it was performing satisfactorily in these countries.
The PIL pointed out that sections of the new road, where the Type 5 pavement had been constructed on Salwa Road, had been under traffic pressure for many months. But no pavement distress was recorded. The pavement developed cracks only after the heavy and incessant rains in the beginning of December 2006. “A series of tests had been carried out on materials taken from the failed areas, as well as on samples taken from other areas of type 5 pavements. The test results indicated that the materials used had fully complied with the specific standards", the PIL said.
PIL pointed out that in one or two of the areas where failures had occurred, some of the asphalt surfacing had not been laid in accordance with the specification and Non-Conformance Reports (NCR's) had been issued to the contractor.
The volume of traffic had increased over twenty per cent allowed for in the original design. It also suggested Ashghal to carry out a Benkelman Beam test (BBT).
However, Ashghal nominees in the committee pointed out that although the first failures were experienced on sections where only the 60mm asphalt base-course had been laid, there were now almost as many failures on sections of road where wearing course had also been laid. There were a number of pavement failures on sections where the road was constructed on high fill, they said.
Responding to a point that there is a clear evidence of structural failure on the crack arresting layer of the pavement, PIL replied:" The trial pit investigations carried out and the associated test results on the GSB layer had produced no evidence of structural failure to the crack arresting layer.
Ashghal clarifies on Salwa road report
Web posted at: 2/7/2007 2:21:7
Source ::: The Peninsula
Doha • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) yesterday clarified that a report which appreared in The Peninsula, dated February 6, on Salwa road issue was based on the draft minutes of the concerned committee's meeting held on December 28, last year.
Responding to the report, Ashghal said: "The article quotes information which appears to be similar to the unofficial/draft minutes of the committee's meeting held on December 28, 2006. The minutes record the kick-off meeting of the committee and do not represent in any way shape or form the current status of the investigation. It only recorded some opinions and theories stated at the early meeting without any tests to prove or disprove these theories. Also the independent specialists from TRL were not part of the team yet."
"Subsequent to the above meeting, several meetings have been held during which some information has been submitted to the committee. The committee will issue its final conclusions in due course", said an official release from Ashghal.
Ashghal-CMC row reaches boiling point
Web posted at: 2/9/2007 1:48:24
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The battle between the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and the Central Municipal Council CMC) over matters of jurisdiction have apparently reached a point of no return.
Ashghal has sent a stern letter to the CMC stating it has no jurisdiction over Ashghal's work and has brought up legal aspects to drive home its point. CMC Chairman Ibrahim Al Hydous, no doubt taken aback at the tone of the letter, has asked the Council's legal expert to frame a suitable response.
In its letter to the CMC, Ashghal said there was no legal or supervisory relationship between the two sides. It said that according to article No.. 2 of Law No. 1 (2004), Ashghal is an autonomous body with a distinct personality of its own. With regard to the CMC, Ashghal has cited Law No. 12 (1998) which says that the CMC has no power to oversee public projects.
The set-to between the two sides has been sparked off after the CMC had asked Ashghal for all documents related to the work carried out on Salwa Road, which has been practically washed away by the rent rains. Former CMC General Secretary Fahad Al Suwailem had earlier told The Peninsula the documents asked for included those related to design and the tendering process
In a recent meeting, the CMC had stressed that Ashghal should know that the road falls under its jurisdiction as it is in the public interest.
CMC to discuss report on Salwa Road
Web posted at: 2/10/2007 23:22:2
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The Central Municipal Council (CMC) will discuss a report prepared by an expert panel on Salwa Road, at its next meeting.
The panel report contains serious references to the Public Works Authority's (Ashghal) alleged negligence in supervising the works of Salwa Road project, reported Arabic daily.
Quoting two separate reports submitted before Ashghal in 2004, the new report said that the contracting company had compromised on the standard quality of Salwa road project.
Another report, submitted to Ashghal in 2005, had clearly warned that the delay in the project would lead to frequent road mishaps, the daily reported.
The expert panel's report has recommended a close monitoring of all government projects by a competent team.
The report wanted Ashghal to seek the help of experts, including from the Central Laboratory to ensure the quality of the works.
It has also wanted Ashghal to compensate their competent professionals not to lose them to the private sector.
The report also urged Ashghal to bring back its competent staff who had quit the organisation for better prospects.
Panel finds serious flaws in Salwa project
Web posted at: 2/12/2007 1:25:15
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The expert panel set up by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) to look into the construction flaws in Salwa Road project has found serious lapses in the designing, and execution part of the project. The report said the concerned company did not comply with the Qatar quality standards both in the designing and execution of the project.
The final report, which was released yesterday to the media, said there were also serious lapses in the asphalting works.
The 12-member probe team included representatives from Ashghal, Qatar General Organisation for Standards and Metrology (QGOSM), the company which had designed the project and an independent member from a reputed UK-based company.
The report accused the construction company of failing to consider the findings of a detailed survey conducted by the Traffic and Patrolling department.
"The survey had come out with some valuable findings on the estimated tyre pressures of the road. But the company did not consider this crucial factor, while designing the project", the report said.
Ashghal denies reports on Salwa Road
Web posted at: 2/15/2007 2:18:27
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has denied media reports that the Central Municipal Council (CMC) will take over the construction work of Salwa Road..
Reacting to reports which appeared in a section of the media, Zayed Mansour Al Khayarin, Managing Director, Ashghal, yesterday said Ashghal has a competent team of professionals to take up any challenging works in the sector.
He also took exception to the views of a section of CMC members that a recently released report on Salwa road was concocted and biased. “Ashghal in no way had influenced the panel members. It is an independent report,” he said.
Probe into Salwa project
Web posted at: 2/26/2007 3:48:14
Source ::: The Peninsula
Doha • The Public Works Authority (PWA), popularly known as Ashghal, has set up a committee to probe if any irregularities were committed in carrying out the Salwa Road project, Al Sharq reported yesterday. The inquiry panel was set up after the newly built roads developed potholes during the rains recently. If any irregularities (such as compromising the quality of materials used) are found, the matter will be referred to the State Audit Bureau. Meanwhile, the authority has stalled at least six major projects due to shortage of basic building materials.
Separate dept for Expressway project under study
Web posted at: 2/27/2007 3:5:18
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is toying with the idea of setting up a separate department to carry out its prestigious Doha Expressway Project.
Jamal Shareeda Al Kabi, manager of projects department, Roads Affairs, Ashghal, yesterday said constituting a separate department for the QR8bn project is under study. The project department has suggested this idea considering the importance and size of the project, which has to be executed in 13 independent phases. However, Al Kabi denied media reports that that Ashghal has already set up a separate department and bestowed all powers related to contracting, consultancy and technical matters related to Doha Expressway project to this department.
"It is true that Ashghal has set up a Working Team to look into the Salwa Project. But it has nothing to do with the proposed Doha Expressway project department. They are entirely two different things," he said.
On the Salwa road issue, Al Kabi said;"The committee constituted to look into the issue has pointed to the problems in designing and executing project... The consultant company, with the intention of reducing cost in backfilling and paving works, has suggested utilising the existing paving and construct new paving above the existing one in some places. It may be noted that the agreement for designing Salwa road was signed in the year 2001, prior to the formation of Ashghal,” he said.
The committee had also detected that the consultant had undertaken designing based on false figures and numbers that are alien to the Qatari standards, Al Kabi added.
Ashghal to complete Salwa International Highway within a year
Web posted at: 6/25/2007 3:29:47
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is gearing up to complete Salwa International Highway project within a year.
Hilal Jiham Al Kuwari, chairman, project management committee for Salwa Road said here yesterday that a number of local companies are busy involved the preliminary works of mudding, preparation for asphalt level on highway and interchanges, in addition to electrical and lighting works.
The action team, constituted by Ashghal to determine the best methods to complete the works in a record time, has decided to divide the project as separate contract packages. “The contract package has been designed to suit to the contractual potential of local contractors,” he said.
“The managing team wanted the involvement of the local private sector in the accomplishment of the project. The contract package has already been awarded to a number of local companies who have the competence and ability to do the work,” he added.
Detailing the progress made in the project, Al Kuwari said that temporary lighting works on some parts of the road have already been completed. He cited the construction of power stations in preparation for the electrical work and completion of Abu Sidra Interchange.
“Ashghal deals with full transparency with this project. We appreciate the local media for inquiring the progress of work, and calls for a field follow-up for the project,” he said.
Considering the period during which the project was stopped, now the emphasis is on processing various construction materials and on implementing the priorities for road users, he added.
Ashghal is in the process of publishing a monthly report in the local media on the progress of project works. The working team is under the continuous follow up of Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin, board member and managing director of "Ashghal" who is keen on the completion of this project that has faced many difficulties and obstacles before it has been shouldered to Ashghal.
The Board of Directors of the Ashghal, under the auspicious H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Heir Apparent, has formed a working committee to oversee Salwa International Highway project. The committee functions under the umbrella of Ashghal structure and the managing director is the authority to issue its decisions.
SECTION 6 : Project Delay in Qatar
Many Ashghal road projects face delay
Web posted at: 4/3/2006 2:6:9
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA: Delays have cropped up in completion of several road projects in different parts of Doha. The works are being carried out by Ashghal, the Public Works Authority.
Ashghal embarked on five major projects last summer to get the city ready for the Asian games slated to start on December 1. The roads where works are going on are the Airport Road, Suhaim bin Hamad Street, Ahmed bin Ali Street, the first phase of Shamal Street, and Al Khufji project.
All of the projects have been contracted out to local firms.
According to Mishaal Al Dahnim, project manager for the Airport Road, several factors have come into play causing the delays.
He said that it's not just the roads that are being repaired, but water and sewage pipes as well as electric and phone cables.
Mishaal suggested that the underground network should be shifted to the sides of the road.
Another factor is landowners or property owners who are seeking compensation for the work being done around their areas. Resolving the disputes can be time-consuming, Mishaal said..
Yet another problem is that the underground maze doesn't seem to tally with the blueprints given to the contractors.
Delays are caused by the time consumed in trying to get the proper information from the original contractors who laid the cables and pipes, Mishaal said.
Roadworks delay worries businesses
Web posted at: 10/1/2006 10:0:21
Source ::: The Peninsula
A view of deserted shopping complexes at Parachute Roundabout-Al Wakra road. (ABDUL BASIT)
DOHA • Shopkeepers and traders on the Parachute Roundabout-Al Wakra Road, has once again fallen victims to the delayed development works of Airport Road. With the authorities closing both the lanes, they are losing 60 to 70 per cent of their business.
“Our business had reduced by half after the authorities restricted vehicular traffic into a single lane, a couple of months back. However, after a few weeks, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) closed both the roads. Now, two weeks have elapsed since they had cordoned off the road and we are really struggling to pay the rent and wages of employees,” said a shop owner.
“Ashghal was supposed to complete the work by August. After the contractor had failed to meet the deadline, it was heard that they had changed the contractor. The new contractor is supposed to complete the work by October. However, going by the slow pace of the work, I don't think the new contractor will be able to keep his words,” said another shop owner.
The shopkeepers blamed the authorities for want of coordination between various agencies in the digging work. Qtel, Ashghal and Kahramaa had dug the road at least three times within a month... The area is dotted with nearly 40 shops and business establishments..
Ashghal’s MD rejects charges over delay in road projects
Web posted at: 11/4/2006 3:13:40
Source ::: The Peninsula
Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin
DOHA • Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin, Managing Director, The Public Works Authority (Ashghal), has dismissed the allegations levelled by a section of Central Municipal Council(CMC) members that there is undue delay in the completion of road projects. Al Khayarin also termed the rumours that Ashghal has a strained relationship with the CMC, on the question of road projects. In an interview permitted to the in-house journal of CMC, Al Khayarin said that all the roads works, undertook by Ashghal, were progressing as per the project schedule, except the Landmark project. "Ashghal admits there is a delay in the Landmark project. It is beyond the control of both Ashghal and the Contractor. Due to some exigencies, the contractor was forced to carry out some works outside his contract. It is true that this has hit the works of Landmark", Al Khayarin clarified. Ashghal ahs already announced that the works of Industrial Interchange would start after the Asian Games. The contract for the construction of Al Wakra Hospital has already signed, he said. Ahmed bin Ali Street and Suhaim bin Hamad Street have been opened partially. The remaining works are fast progressing. Regarding the Airport Road, Al Khayarin said that it is an 18-month project and is supposed to be completed in two phases. The second phase work is in progress. Though the project will not be able to complete before Asian Games, Ashghal is hopeful of throwing the road open for vehicular traffic before the Games, he said.
On the criticism by some CMC councillors regarding the closure of roads, Al Khayarin said the ongoing works are part of Ashghals' Five Year Plan projects. And the decision was announced at a media conference, 16 months ago, he added.
East Hilal residents fret over roadwork delay
Web posted at: 1/8/2007 2:25:14
Source ::: The Peninsula
Road development project progressing at East Hilal area. (SALIM MATRAMKOT)
Normal life in the area miserable as garbage collection stopped DOHA • Residents of East Hilal area are a frustrated lot. Undue delay in the completion of road project is making their life miserable. Month-long digging works, construction, demolition and the road blockade have made normal life in the area near-hellish. Due to prolonged road blocks, Municipal authorities have stopped clearing the waste bins in the area. Cooking gas distributors have stopped their door delivery. Parents are forced to take their children to the nearest junction to board their school bus. A visit to the work zone proves that the public frustration is at its zenith:" We really don't know what sort of development work has been going on in the area for the last one year. The digging works, construction, demolition, and re-excavations have been going on here all these months making our life miserable", said Ibrahim Al Emadi, a local resident. Al Emadi, a national and an engineer by profession, attributed the mess to lack of coordination between various agencies. "One day you can see a section of people involved in excavation works and laying a set of pipelines or cables. Next morning you could see another batch digging up the same place and taking the cables out. During the rainy days, we were literally wading through the knee-deep slush" Al Emadi told The Peninsula. Of late, The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has put up a notice at Amr bin Hazm Road announcing the project would be completed on February 12, 2007. But the residents are taking it with a pinch of salt.. 'Of course, I am not an expert to make comments on construction works. But it seems something is wrong with their planning. The prolonged digging works are causing a lot of inconvenience to us. We often face problems due to power and water disruptions. Telecommunication a network in the area is also being hit frequently these days", said Abu Hassan, an Arab national residing at Amr Bin Hazm road. The steep wooden bridge put up by the contractor to the door step has led to several accidents in the area. A pregnant woman had to be rushed to emergency unit after she lost here balance and fell down while coming out of her house the other day... Al Emadi said he missed his mother and relatives during the Eid holidays. Because of the poor condition of the road his mother and close relatives did not bother to turn up to his residence on the just concluded Eid festival days, he said. When contacted, Hamad Essa Rajab, Project Engineer,Ashghal, admitted delay in the project execution." The project was expected t be completed by September 4, 2006.
Ashghal to open Airport Road for traffic tomorrow
Web posted at: 1/6/2007 2:7:7
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will throw open the entire stretch of Airport Road to vehicular traffic from Sunday. The second phase of the project is almost complete. What remains is only a two-layer asphalting of the road. The entire stretch between Al Wakra and Airport signal will be fully opened to traffic on Sunday, Mish'al Al Dhanim, project manager, airport road, told an Arabic Daily. Al Dhanim said that the delay in laying various service cables had created problems for the smooth works of the project. The development works were also hit by unprecedented rains. "However, Ashghal has overcome all obstacles. The lighting works between Parachute Intersection and airport Commercial Street has also been completed. The entire workforce, involved in the development of airport project did not avail their Eid holidays and was busy working to complete the project on time," he added. The airport project was launched by Ashghal for the reconstruction and expansion of Airport road from Salemein Intersection to Silah Al Jaw Roundabout. The project included development of infrastructure networks, service roads and side-support through out the road. The expansion of Al Mana signal and conversion of Airport Roundabout, Parachute Roundabout and Airport Commercial street Entrance to the traffic signal, were also included in the project..
The project was also aimed at the expansion of existing Airport Roundabout and converting it into a Traffic signal, which is expected to streamline traffic movement, especially for vehicles coming from D-Ring Road and Wakra and for those going to the airport.
Roadworks delay out of our hands: Ashghal
Web posted at: 5/27/2008 2:16:43
Source ::: The Peninsula / by Mohammed Saeed
Doha • The delay in completing major road projects across the country is caused by factors beyond the control of the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), says an official. Saad Al Messned, Director of Infrastructure Affairs at Ashghal, told Al Sharq that there were several factors which caused the delay – among them were the absence of a master plan, contracting companies getting involved in projects beyond their capacity and the scarcity of building materials. Al Messned said the road projects connecting Doha with other localities would be completed by 2013. As Qatar is implementing a new master plan, the design of certain projects might be modified to suit the new plan being introduced by the Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA), he said. The state allocates land where the real estate companies construct projects for commercial or residential purposes, and these projects sometimes force the authority and UPDA to introduce changes to the roads under construction. About the roads which are expected to be completed soon, Al Messned said Salwa Road would be completed and handed over by the third quarter of this year. Some 90 percent of Oum Baraka Road that links Al Shamal with Ras Laffan has been completed and it will be open for traffic by the end of the year, he added.
QCCI meet debates traffic woes
Web posted at: 11/23/2006 2:15:47
Source ::: The Peninsula
Participants discuss traffic problems at a meeting hosted by the QCCI, yesterday.
DOHA • The Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QCCI) yesterday hosted a meeting of leaders from the Traffic and Patrol Department and representatives of contracting and transport companies.
The meeting discussed the problems and obstacles faced by businessmen over the fixed times for heavy vehicle to ply and the maximum weights allowed.
The meeting, headed by Ali Abdul Latif Al Muhannadi, head of the QCCI Services Committee, was attended by Mohammed bin Towar Al Kuwari, the Chamber's Honourable Treasurer, Deputy Director of the Traffic and Patrol Department Brigadier Mohammed Abdullah Al Malki, and head of the Planning and Security Department, Colonel Mohammed Abdul Rahim Marafia, among others.
The meeting witnessed heated discussions focused on two main points. The first one was on recognising all the obstacles that the private sector faces while the second point asked for the formation of a committee to follow up these problems and find mechanisms for solutions.
Replying to the questions, Mohammed Abdullah said that most of the accidents caused by heavy vehicles are due to misuse of the trucks. Most accidents took place during the day because of high speed.
Giving an example, he said one truck had collided with a bus leaving six people dead. The reason behind the accident was the driver was asleep at the wheel.
Regarding allowable weights, he said that the law has decided on the matter.
However, the Chamber can write to the concerned authority to improve the situation..
As for heavy vehicles in general, he said there are other authorities which should be consulted in the matter like Ashghal, the Urban Planning Authority and the General Organisation for Standards and Metrology.
Potholes make driving on Industrial Area roads a nightmare
Web posted at: 12/14/2006 3:38:43
Source ::: The Peninsula
A deep pothole seen filled with rainwater on a main street in Industrial area.
DOHA • Driving has become a nightmare on the roads of Industrial area.
With the black topping peeling off and dotted by potholes, the road network of Industrial area was already in bad shape. Now, the recent rains have aggravated the situation. The potholes have turned in to big craters. Vehicles are struggling through the potholed roads at snail pace, causing heavy traffic congestion during peak hours. Internal roads have virtually turned into cesspools. Adding to the motorists' woe is the ongoing dig up works at various points by different agencies.
Al Athiyah Main Street, Street Numbers 15 to 23 and interior streets like No.15, 41 Roundabout, 47 Roundabout, 15, 39,29 and 26 are the worst-hit.. Accidents have become an everyday affair on these roads.
The entire stretch of the 2 km-long Al Athiyah Street is dotted with deep potholes. Asphalting has been peeled off at several stretches. The deep craters, filled with rain water pose a death trap to the speeding vehicles.. Driving pick-up vans and light vehicles have become more risky.
"Driving in the route has become a dreadful experience. Drivers are forced to apply sudden brakes to avert a rut, often leading to a collision. With several stretches of main road lacking proper light, nigh driving is more dangerous", said a regular commuter in the route.
Asphalting on a large area of internal roads, including street no 10, where the Qatar Technical Inspection Company situates, has been washed away in the rain.
Meanwhile, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) officials attributed the bad shape of roads to the overloading heavy trucks." Heavy trucks are carrying almost the double of the total permissible weight. This is causing early damage to the roads. Though we had warned about the possible damage caused to the overloading trucks, an effective mechanism is yet to be adopted to book the offenders, said a top Ashghal official.
He said that the maintenance of interior roads is supposed to take care by the Municipal authorities. For the maintenance of main roads, Ashghal has already embarked on a QR7mn project. The work will start once the Asian Games is over, he added.
Ashghal counters public criticism
Web posted at: 12/27/2006 2:49:3
Source ::: The Peninsula
Doha • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has said that it would respond positively to the criticism that it had failed to combat the problem of waterlogging during the rainy days.
Reacting to the sharp public criticism, Asghal yesterday came out with a detailed explanation: "The recent rainfall during the first and second weeks of this month evoked a lot of criticism from the public, when the defects of discharging rain water from the streets and main roads were exposed. The Authority faced lot of criticism from the public because of pilling rainwater in many areas. Ashghal welcomes all types of criticisms and takes it as an opportunity to correct mistakes.
“However, this issue needs objective assessment. Discharging rainwater is a permanent problem that can't be solved in a day or two. The issue may arise in the coming years also in lesser volume. Ashghal is a newly established institution, which has started executing its project just 20 months before. It has a plan to overcome the issue of draining rainwater from the streets and main roads,” the statement said..
The statement pointed out that the new roads and streets recently opened by Ashghal do not have the problem of gathering or discharging of rainwater due to the availability of integrated network to discharge groundwater and surface water. Suhaim bin Hamad Street and Ahmed bin Ali Street, where rainwater did not gather, are examples. It is the same case with the recently opened first phase of Airport Main Road (from Airport Intersection to Salemein Signal).
“A simple comparison of the condition of these streets in the past and their present condition confirms the effectiveness of Ashghal projects. Bin Omran Roundabout, which is now converted to signalised intersection, was having the problem of rainwater gathering, creating a lot of traffic problem. It was the same case with Shura Roundabout and Airport Roundabout. Now, these streets do not face such problems.
“We do not undermine that rainwater were gathered in two locations on Al Waab Street. One was at Al Manasir Interchange where works are not yet completed and it was already announced that the works would be completed only after Asian Games. There was also a small gathering of rainwater near Carrefour. This was due to the lack of side pit on the street for gathering rainwater and now its works are going on,” said the statement
These issues are duly considered in the new road projects executed by Ashghal within its First Five Year Plan. The new projects include reconstruction and renewal of all infrastructure networks including the networks for gathering surface water and groundwater.
The road projects consist of a major portion of the budget of Five Year Plan. A big amount of QR14bn is budgeted for executing 40 major projects. Once these projects are completed, people can reach any point of the state very easily, as they connect all the four directions of the state together and they will have comprehensive network for discharging rainwater.
It is natural that as there is shortage of water discharge network now, the rainwater draining is done using tankers and there is an emergency committee consisting of members from various authorities like Ashghal, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture, which takes every effort for siphoning of rainwater from various parts of the state.
“During the recent rainfall, Ashghal's Maintenance and Operation Department of Drainage Affairs worked round the clock. Education City, Old Al Rayyan, Al Bida, a part of Khalifa Town, a part of Al Luqta, Al Sadd, a part of Al Nasr Street, Bin Mahmood, Mushierab, Souqs Area, Rawdatul Khail Street, Al Asmakh Street, a part of Dafna, Al Mamura, Al Waab, Central Market, Ras Abu Aboud, Al Shafi area and Grand Hamad Street were the areas covered under the network for discharging surface water and rainwater. It may be noted that the areas that do not cover under the network are under the sphere of their respective Municipalities,” Ashghal clarified.
SECTION 4 : Ashghal Organization
Ashghal reconstitutes organisational structure
Web posted at: 1/13/2008 4:7:16
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • To cope with Qatar's rapid developments in the infrastructure, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), in coordination with Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA) has restructured its activities. The new organizational structure of Ashghal, will come to effect from February 1, 2008.
The organizational restructuring was done by an international company after a thorough study and discussion with all concerned. The new organizational structure is divided into four major sectors including Infrastructure Affairs, Building Affairs, Assets Management and Support Affairs.
Regarding infrastructure affairs, the existing Road Affairs and Drainage Affairs are merged in this with one department each for designs, roads and drainage.
The Assets Management is the section related to operations and maintenance, which was so far managed by road affairs and drainage affairs, creating a kind of duplication in the maintenance of projects. Now it has been separated in such a way that the operations and maintenance will be a different entity supervised by a separate section to monitor the performance of projects after completion. The Assets Management comprises engineering department, and operation & maintenance department of roads and drainage. However, the Building Affairs did not undergo any major change in the process.
The Support Affairs contains all departments related to provide administrative supports to the Authority including Finance Department, Human Resources Department, Information System and Telecommunications Department, Corporate Development Department and General Services Department. All the four sectors will have a Chief Operations Officer.
The newly evolved Engineering Support Services and Contracts Affairs will also have Chief Operations Officer. The Engineering Support will provide all technical services to Ashghal's operation in terms of planning, estimation and documentation of projects. Whereas the Contracts Engineering department is specialized to prepare project contracts, contract control, identify the problems and find solutions related to the contracts.
The new organizational structure also contains three major departments at the top of the pyramid. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) - a replacement of the existing position Managing Director, will directly follow the Public Relations Department, Quality, Safety & Environment Department and Secretariat General for Tender Committees. The department of quality, safety & environment (QSE) is responsible for the quality control of Ashghal projects at sites and offices. The environment section will coordinate with the Supreme Council for Environment and Natural Reserves (SCENR) to ensure the environment friendliness of Ashghal projects.
The Secretariat General for Tender Committee is divided into three main committees. At the top of the organizational structure is Board of Directors to whom the CEO, the Legal Affairs and the Internal Audit will be directly reporting.
Mawlawi appointed Acting MD of Ashghal
Web posted at: 12/19/2008 2:44:31
Source ::: THE PENINSULA
DOHA: Nasser Ali Abdullah Mawlawi (pictured) has been appointed Acting Managing Director of Public Works Authority (Ashghal).
The appointment was made by an order issued by the Minister of Municipal and Urban Planning, H E Sheikh Abdul Rahman bin Khalifa Al Thani, who is also Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Public Works Authority and the Urban Planning and Development Authority.
Mawlawi, who is in his mid-forties, got a degree in electrical engineering from Boston University in 1987. He joined the engineering and works unit of the Qatar Armed Forces as Engineer Officer in 1988 and served in the army until 2003, rising to the rank of Colonel Engineer.
He was then deputed to the Organising Committee of the Asian Games Doha 2006, as CEO of facilities and projects management, in which post he served from June 2003 to June 2007.
In June 2007, he joined Barwa as the CEO of Barwa City project and served the company till this new assignment.
SECTION 5 : Salwa Road News
Ashghal chief defends against CMC criticism
Web posted at: 12/28/2006 2:26:28
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin, Managing Director, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) took serious exceptions with Central Municipal Council (CMC) members' criticism that Ashghal was apathetic in maintaining its roads.
Reacting to CMC members' criticism, Al Khayarin said majority of the council members were not aware of the development activities that are being carried out at their respective areas.
He said that many truck drivers were using the roads under construction, before they were thrown open for traffic. This is one of the main reasons for the damage of roads. The councillors who criticize Ashghal are not cooperating to book these law-breakers.
Regarding Salwa road's poor condition, Al Khayarin said the contract for the road construction was signed in 2003, much before the establishment of Ashghal. The company which took care of the design part of the road is an internationally reputed agency. However, Ashghal has set up an expert committee to look in to the issue.
Al Khayarin said Ashghal's prestigious Five Year Plan Project was prepared in consultation with the Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Agriculture (MMAA(). He wanted CMC members to co-operate with Ashghal's project rather than levelling baseless charges against it.
Ashghal panel to look into Salwa Road issue
Web posted at: 12/26/2006 1:48:56
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • In view of widespread criticism against the bad shape of International Salwa Road, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has set up an expert committee to look into the issue.
Jamal Sherida Al Kabi, Director, Project Department, Roads Affairs, expressed hope that the committee would submit its report by the end of January.
The panel includes the nominees of Ashghal, Quality standard laboratory and road designers and Consultants.
Al Kabi said the reconstruction of Salwa Road will begin soon after Ashghal received the report.
The 55 km road is dotted with deep potholes. It may be either due to the design problem or due to a faulty execution, he said.
CMC-Ashghal row hots up
Web posted at: 2/3/2007 2:7:49
Source ::: The Peninsula
muddy hurdles: A bulldozer clearing mud at one of road constructions sites in Doha. Ashghal is currently under the microscope for the slow progress and poor quality of work..
DOHA • The ongoing spat between The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and Central Municipal Council (CMC) took a new turn, with more CMC members coming out against Ashghal, yesterday.
Speaking to Al Sharq, CMC members attributed the undue delay in Ashghal projects to awarding works to incompetent contractors. They also alleged that it was the lack of proper monitoring of the construction works that are leading to the premature damage of Ashghal's prestigious projects.
The council members also wanted Ashghal to alert CMC before embarking on a development projects.
Ibrahim Al Ibrahim, the CMC member representing Murhia area, said the quality of several road projects are not up-to-the mark. For instance, the University road project, which was completed five months ago, is in bad shape already, he said.
Essa Al Kuwari, deputy chairperson, CMC said Ashghal was trying to shirk away from its responsibility in the Salwa Road issue.
The case of Salwa road is a classic example that what would be the fate of a project, if it was carried out without proper supervision.
Al Kuwari wanted Ashghal to inform CMC before carrying out its all major projects, especially the road projects. The several hassles plaguing the Airport Intersection project, Landmark Intersection, Ahmed bin Ali road and Al Manassir Road, could have been avoided if Ashghal had informed CMC in advance, he said.
"Contracting companies are bidding for more and more projects. But they often fail to deploy competent work force. This is one of the major reasons that had led to the delay in the completion of projects.",said Jassim Al Malki, Chairman, general service, CMC.
In several cases, the contractors are paying penalty to Ashghal. He wanted Ashghal to set up a separate team to monitor the progress of its various projects.
Role of CMC being ignored: Official
Web posted at: 2/3/2007 1:51:25
Source ::: The Peninsula
Essa Al Kuwari
DOHA • Deputy Chairman of the outgoing Central Municipal Council (CMC) Essa Al Kuwari said in an interview to Al Sharq said that senior officials of the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) have never really accepted the fact that the CMC has a role to play in civic affairs.
He said: "Some Ashghal officials have never accepted our role and do not want to discuss issues like projects with us. Also, the CMC has never claimed that it was behind raising the issue of Salwa Road."
Salwa Road has become a nightmare for drivers due to the heavy rains which washed away much of the blacktop. Speaking on the upcoming elections, Essa said the next session of the CMC should be a good one and the Council will reap the benefits of past sessions. The third session of the CMC will sit from April 18, 17 days after the elections.
Essa said that should he win from his constituency, he will present a proposal in the next session which will show how the CMC actually works.
CMC, Ashghal locked in dispute over Salwa Road
Web posted at: 1/27/2007 1:50:25
Source ::: The Peninsula
Fahad A M Al Suwailem
DOHA • The simmering dispute between the Central Municipal Council (CMC) and the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has come to a head over the Salwa Road issue.
One of the city's main thoroughfares, Salwa Road has become almost unmotorable following the recent rains. The road is marked by potholes and craters, making driving a risky proposition.
In a recent meeting, the CMC made it a point to let Ashghal know that the road falls under its jurisdiction as it is in the public interest. CMC General Secretary Fahad A M Al Suwailem has in fact dashed off a letter to a senior official in Ashghal's Technical Affairs Department, Ahmad Sulatan Al Kuwari, to provide all documents related to the Salwa Road project.
The rains had washed away almost the entire blacktop and Ashghal has blamed private contractors for the subsequent shortcomings stating their work had been shoddy.
Fahad told The Peninsula yesterday: "In a recent meeting, the CMC decided that we should ask Ashghal for all related documents, which will include papers related to the tendering process and design. Ashghal is yet to reply but they also have a committee of their own and are discussing the issues."
He said that Ashghal had never raised any issues on whether the CMC had any say on the matter or not. "Our statement was just an explanation of where we stand," said Fahad.
Incidentally, Article 8 of Law No 12 (1998) specifically states the CMC is an independent entity. "It is totally free to practice its responsibilities without any interference. The Council has the right to discuss all municipal problems," the law says.
Flaws in Salwa road pavement construction
Web posted at: 2/6/2007 3:46:28
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The Qatar General OrganiSation for Standards and Metrology (QGOSM) has said that there was clear evidence of a structural failure in the construction of the pavements of Salwa International Highway.
Attending a joint meeting of concerned officials, convened by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) to look into the massive cracks developed on Salwa International High way, the QGOSM nominees said that there was very clear evidence of extensive fatigue cracking. At the meeting they expressed their serious concern about the use of the Type 5 pavements utilising a specific crack-arrest- layer (GSB).
Top Ashghal officials, who attended the meeting, wanted the Parson International Ltd (PIL), the company responsible for the design work for phase 1 of Salwa International Highway, to clarify the details of the joint interface between Type 5 pavement and the full depth construction type 1 pavement. They also asked the company why a full-depth construction had not been adopted in accordance with Qatar Highway Design Manual (QHDM).
The PIL clarified that the pavement design was done according to the findings of a report prepared on behalf of Roads Department of Government of Qatar.
Henry Saville, currently Parsons Sector manager for Roads and Highways in Europe, said that though the PIL did not agree with the contents of the report, they had been required to base their design on the contents of the ERI report which stated that the structure of the existing road pavement was adequate for the traffic loading foreseen.
Saville, who said that he was responsible for the design works of the highway, added that the design thickness of the required granular sub base layer was increased by 20 per cent in order to accommodate any increase in traffic as well as to allow for then likelihood of overloaded trucks and tyre pressures in excess as anticipated by ERI report.
Responding to a query from Ashghal authorities, the PIL confirmed that a `crack arresting layer' was not included in the pavement type in the Qatar Highway Design Manual (QHDM). It said that a granular subbase crack arresting layer, which was used in Salwa Road project, had been used in road pavement rehabilitation in at least three other nations including Vietnam, Greece and Romania and it was performing satisfactorily in these countries.
The PIL pointed out that sections of the new road, where the Type 5 pavement had been constructed on Salwa Road, had been under traffic pressure for many months. But no pavement distress was recorded. The pavement developed cracks only after the heavy and incessant rains in the beginning of December 2006. “A series of tests had been carried out on materials taken from the failed areas, as well as on samples taken from other areas of type 5 pavements. The test results indicated that the materials used had fully complied with the specific standards", the PIL said.
PIL pointed out that in one or two of the areas where failures had occurred, some of the asphalt surfacing had not been laid in accordance with the specification and Non-Conformance Reports (NCR's) had been issued to the contractor.
The volume of traffic had increased over twenty per cent allowed for in the original design. It also suggested Ashghal to carry out a Benkelman Beam test (BBT).
However, Ashghal nominees in the committee pointed out that although the first failures were experienced on sections where only the 60mm asphalt base-course had been laid, there were now almost as many failures on sections of road where wearing course had also been laid. There were a number of pavement failures on sections where the road was constructed on high fill, they said.
Responding to a point that there is a clear evidence of structural failure on the crack arresting layer of the pavement, PIL replied:" The trial pit investigations carried out and the associated test results on the GSB layer had produced no evidence of structural failure to the crack arresting layer.
Ashghal clarifies on Salwa road report
Web posted at: 2/7/2007 2:21:7
Source ::: The Peninsula
Doha • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) yesterday clarified that a report which appreared in The Peninsula, dated February 6, on Salwa road issue was based on the draft minutes of the concerned committee's meeting held on December 28, last year.
Responding to the report, Ashghal said: "The article quotes information which appears to be similar to the unofficial/draft minutes of the committee's meeting held on December 28, 2006. The minutes record the kick-off meeting of the committee and do not represent in any way shape or form the current status of the investigation. It only recorded some opinions and theories stated at the early meeting without any tests to prove or disprove these theories. Also the independent specialists from TRL were not part of the team yet."
"Subsequent to the above meeting, several meetings have been held during which some information has been submitted to the committee. The committee will issue its final conclusions in due course", said an official release from Ashghal.
Ashghal-CMC row reaches boiling point
Web posted at: 2/9/2007 1:48:24
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The battle between the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and the Central Municipal Council CMC) over matters of jurisdiction have apparently reached a point of no return.
Ashghal has sent a stern letter to the CMC stating it has no jurisdiction over Ashghal's work and has brought up legal aspects to drive home its point. CMC Chairman Ibrahim Al Hydous, no doubt taken aback at the tone of the letter, has asked the Council's legal expert to frame a suitable response.
In its letter to the CMC, Ashghal said there was no legal or supervisory relationship between the two sides. It said that according to article No.. 2 of Law No. 1 (2004), Ashghal is an autonomous body with a distinct personality of its own. With regard to the CMC, Ashghal has cited Law No. 12 (1998) which says that the CMC has no power to oversee public projects.
The set-to between the two sides has been sparked off after the CMC had asked Ashghal for all documents related to the work carried out on Salwa Road, which has been practically washed away by the rent rains. Former CMC General Secretary Fahad Al Suwailem had earlier told The Peninsula the documents asked for included those related to design and the tendering process
In a recent meeting, the CMC had stressed that Ashghal should know that the road falls under its jurisdiction as it is in the public interest.
CMC to discuss report on Salwa Road
Web posted at: 2/10/2007 23:22:2
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The Central Municipal Council (CMC) will discuss a report prepared by an expert panel on Salwa Road, at its next meeting.
The panel report contains serious references to the Public Works Authority's (Ashghal) alleged negligence in supervising the works of Salwa Road project, reported Arabic daily.
Quoting two separate reports submitted before Ashghal in 2004, the new report said that the contracting company had compromised on the standard quality of Salwa road project.
Another report, submitted to Ashghal in 2005, had clearly warned that the delay in the project would lead to frequent road mishaps, the daily reported.
The expert panel's report has recommended a close monitoring of all government projects by a competent team.
The report wanted Ashghal to seek the help of experts, including from the Central Laboratory to ensure the quality of the works.
It has also wanted Ashghal to compensate their competent professionals not to lose them to the private sector.
The report also urged Ashghal to bring back its competent staff who had quit the organisation for better prospects.
Panel finds serious flaws in Salwa project
Web posted at: 2/12/2007 1:25:15
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The expert panel set up by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) to look into the construction flaws in Salwa Road project has found serious lapses in the designing, and execution part of the project. The report said the concerned company did not comply with the Qatar quality standards both in the designing and execution of the project.
The final report, which was released yesterday to the media, said there were also serious lapses in the asphalting works.
The 12-member probe team included representatives from Ashghal, Qatar General Organisation for Standards and Metrology (QGOSM), the company which had designed the project and an independent member from a reputed UK-based company.
The report accused the construction company of failing to consider the findings of a detailed survey conducted by the Traffic and Patrolling department.
"The survey had come out with some valuable findings on the estimated tyre pressures of the road. But the company did not consider this crucial factor, while designing the project", the report said.
Ashghal denies reports on Salwa Road
Web posted at: 2/15/2007 2:18:27
Source ::: The Peninsula
doha • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has denied media reports that the Central Municipal Council (CMC) will take over the construction work of Salwa Road..
Reacting to reports which appeared in a section of the media, Zayed Mansour Al Khayarin, Managing Director, Ashghal, yesterday said Ashghal has a competent team of professionals to take up any challenging works in the sector.
He also took exception to the views of a section of CMC members that a recently released report on Salwa road was concocted and biased. “Ashghal in no way had influenced the panel members. It is an independent report,” he said.
Probe into Salwa project
Web posted at: 2/26/2007 3:48:14
Source ::: The Peninsula
Doha • The Public Works Authority (PWA), popularly known as Ashghal, has set up a committee to probe if any irregularities were committed in carrying out the Salwa Road project, Al Sharq reported yesterday. The inquiry panel was set up after the newly built roads developed potholes during the rains recently. If any irregularities (such as compromising the quality of materials used) are found, the matter will be referred to the State Audit Bureau. Meanwhile, the authority has stalled at least six major projects due to shortage of basic building materials.
Separate dept for Expressway project under study
Web posted at: 2/27/2007 3:5:18
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is toying with the idea of setting up a separate department to carry out its prestigious Doha Expressway Project.
Jamal Shareeda Al Kabi, manager of projects department, Roads Affairs, Ashghal, yesterday said constituting a separate department for the QR8bn project is under study. The project department has suggested this idea considering the importance and size of the project, which has to be executed in 13 independent phases. However, Al Kabi denied media reports that that Ashghal has already set up a separate department and bestowed all powers related to contracting, consultancy and technical matters related to Doha Expressway project to this department.
"It is true that Ashghal has set up a Working Team to look into the Salwa Project. But it has nothing to do with the proposed Doha Expressway project department. They are entirely two different things," he said.
On the Salwa road issue, Al Kabi said;"The committee constituted to look into the issue has pointed to the problems in designing and executing project... The consultant company, with the intention of reducing cost in backfilling and paving works, has suggested utilising the existing paving and construct new paving above the existing one in some places. It may be noted that the agreement for designing Salwa road was signed in the year 2001, prior to the formation of Ashghal,” he said.
The committee had also detected that the consultant had undertaken designing based on false figures and numbers that are alien to the Qatari standards, Al Kabi added.
Ashghal to complete Salwa International Highway within a year
Web posted at: 6/25/2007 3:29:47
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is gearing up to complete Salwa International Highway project within a year.
Hilal Jiham Al Kuwari, chairman, project management committee for Salwa Road said here yesterday that a number of local companies are busy involved the preliminary works of mudding, preparation for asphalt level on highway and interchanges, in addition to electrical and lighting works.
The action team, constituted by Ashghal to determine the best methods to complete the works in a record time, has decided to divide the project as separate contract packages. “The contract package has been designed to suit to the contractual potential of local contractors,” he said.
“The managing team wanted the involvement of the local private sector in the accomplishment of the project. The contract package has already been awarded to a number of local companies who have the competence and ability to do the work,” he added.
Detailing the progress made in the project, Al Kuwari said that temporary lighting works on some parts of the road have already been completed. He cited the construction of power stations in preparation for the electrical work and completion of Abu Sidra Interchange.
“Ashghal deals with full transparency with this project. We appreciate the local media for inquiring the progress of work, and calls for a field follow-up for the project,” he said.
Considering the period during which the project was stopped, now the emphasis is on processing various construction materials and on implementing the priorities for road users, he added.
Ashghal is in the process of publishing a monthly report in the local media on the progress of project works. The working team is under the continuous follow up of Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin, board member and managing director of "Ashghal" who is keen on the completion of this project that has faced many difficulties and obstacles before it has been shouldered to Ashghal.
The Board of Directors of the Ashghal, under the auspicious H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Heir Apparent, has formed a working committee to oversee Salwa International Highway project. The committee functions under the umbrella of Ashghal structure and the managing director is the authority to issue its decisions.
SECTION 6 : Project Delay in Qatar
Many Ashghal road projects face delay
Web posted at: 4/3/2006 2:6:9
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA: Delays have cropped up in completion of several road projects in different parts of Doha. The works are being carried out by Ashghal, the Public Works Authority.
Ashghal embarked on five major projects last summer to get the city ready for the Asian games slated to start on December 1. The roads where works are going on are the Airport Road, Suhaim bin Hamad Street, Ahmed bin Ali Street, the first phase of Shamal Street, and Al Khufji project.
All of the projects have been contracted out to local firms.
According to Mishaal Al Dahnim, project manager for the Airport Road, several factors have come into play causing the delays.
He said that it's not just the roads that are being repaired, but water and sewage pipes as well as electric and phone cables.
Mishaal suggested that the underground network should be shifted to the sides of the road.
Another factor is landowners or property owners who are seeking compensation for the work being done around their areas. Resolving the disputes can be time-consuming, Mishaal said..
Yet another problem is that the underground maze doesn't seem to tally with the blueprints given to the contractors.
Delays are caused by the time consumed in trying to get the proper information from the original contractors who laid the cables and pipes, Mishaal said.
Roadworks delay worries businesses
Web posted at: 10/1/2006 10:0:21
Source ::: The Peninsula
A view of deserted shopping complexes at Parachute Roundabout-Al Wakra road. (ABDUL BASIT)
DOHA • Shopkeepers and traders on the Parachute Roundabout-Al Wakra Road, has once again fallen victims to the delayed development works of Airport Road. With the authorities closing both the lanes, they are losing 60 to 70 per cent of their business.
“Our business had reduced by half after the authorities restricted vehicular traffic into a single lane, a couple of months back. However, after a few weeks, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) closed both the roads. Now, two weeks have elapsed since they had cordoned off the road and we are really struggling to pay the rent and wages of employees,” said a shop owner.
“Ashghal was supposed to complete the work by August. After the contractor had failed to meet the deadline, it was heard that they had changed the contractor. The new contractor is supposed to complete the work by October. However, going by the slow pace of the work, I don't think the new contractor will be able to keep his words,” said another shop owner.
The shopkeepers blamed the authorities for want of coordination between various agencies in the digging work. Qtel, Ashghal and Kahramaa had dug the road at least three times within a month... The area is dotted with nearly 40 shops and business establishments..
Ashghal’s MD rejects charges over delay in road projects
Web posted at: 11/4/2006 3:13:40
Source ::: The Peninsula
Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin
DOHA • Zayed Mansoor Al Khayarin, Managing Director, The Public Works Authority (Ashghal), has dismissed the allegations levelled by a section of Central Municipal Council(CMC) members that there is undue delay in the completion of road projects. Al Khayarin also termed the rumours that Ashghal has a strained relationship with the CMC, on the question of road projects. In an interview permitted to the in-house journal of CMC, Al Khayarin said that all the roads works, undertook by Ashghal, were progressing as per the project schedule, except the Landmark project. "Ashghal admits there is a delay in the Landmark project. It is beyond the control of both Ashghal and the Contractor. Due to some exigencies, the contractor was forced to carry out some works outside his contract. It is true that this has hit the works of Landmark", Al Khayarin clarified. Ashghal ahs already announced that the works of Industrial Interchange would start after the Asian Games. The contract for the construction of Al Wakra Hospital has already signed, he said. Ahmed bin Ali Street and Suhaim bin Hamad Street have been opened partially. The remaining works are fast progressing. Regarding the Airport Road, Al Khayarin said that it is an 18-month project and is supposed to be completed in two phases. The second phase work is in progress. Though the project will not be able to complete before Asian Games, Ashghal is hopeful of throwing the road open for vehicular traffic before the Games, he said.
On the criticism by some CMC councillors regarding the closure of roads, Al Khayarin said the ongoing works are part of Ashghals' Five Year Plan projects. And the decision was announced at a media conference, 16 months ago, he added.
East Hilal residents fret over roadwork delay
Web posted at: 1/8/2007 2:25:14
Source ::: The Peninsula
Road development project progressing at East Hilal area. (SALIM MATRAMKOT)
Normal life in the area miserable as garbage collection stopped DOHA • Residents of East Hilal area are a frustrated lot. Undue delay in the completion of road project is making their life miserable. Month-long digging works, construction, demolition and the road blockade have made normal life in the area near-hellish. Due to prolonged road blocks, Municipal authorities have stopped clearing the waste bins in the area. Cooking gas distributors have stopped their door delivery. Parents are forced to take their children to the nearest junction to board their school bus. A visit to the work zone proves that the public frustration is at its zenith:" We really don't know what sort of development work has been going on in the area for the last one year. The digging works, construction, demolition, and re-excavations have been going on here all these months making our life miserable", said Ibrahim Al Emadi, a local resident. Al Emadi, a national and an engineer by profession, attributed the mess to lack of coordination between various agencies. "One day you can see a section of people involved in excavation works and laying a set of pipelines or cables. Next morning you could see another batch digging up the same place and taking the cables out. During the rainy days, we were literally wading through the knee-deep slush" Al Emadi told The Peninsula. Of late, The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has put up a notice at Amr bin Hazm Road announcing the project would be completed on February 12, 2007. But the residents are taking it with a pinch of salt.. 'Of course, I am not an expert to make comments on construction works. But it seems something is wrong with their planning. The prolonged digging works are causing a lot of inconvenience to us. We often face problems due to power and water disruptions. Telecommunication a network in the area is also being hit frequently these days", said Abu Hassan, an Arab national residing at Amr Bin Hazm road. The steep wooden bridge put up by the contractor to the door step has led to several accidents in the area. A pregnant woman had to be rushed to emergency unit after she lost here balance and fell down while coming out of her house the other day... Al Emadi said he missed his mother and relatives during the Eid holidays. Because of the poor condition of the road his mother and close relatives did not bother to turn up to his residence on the just concluded Eid festival days, he said. When contacted, Hamad Essa Rajab, Project Engineer,Ashghal, admitted delay in the project execution." The project was expected t be completed by September 4, 2006.
Ashghal to open Airport Road for traffic tomorrow
Web posted at: 1/6/2007 2:7:7
Source ::: The Peninsula
DOHA • The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will throw open the entire stretch of Airport Road to vehicular traffic from Sunday. The second phase of the project is almost complete. What remains is only a two-layer asphalting of the road. The entire stretch between Al Wakra and Airport signal will be fully opened to traffic on Sunday, Mish'al Al Dhanim, project manager, airport road, told an Arabic Daily. Al Dhanim said that the delay in laying various service cables had created problems for the smooth works of the project. The development works were also hit by unprecedented rains. "However, Ashghal has overcome all obstacles. The lighting works between Parachute Intersection and airport Commercial Street has also been completed. The entire workforce, involved in the development of airport project did not avail their Eid holidays and was busy working to complete the project on time," he added. The airport project was launched by Ashghal for the reconstruction and expansion of Airport road from Salemein Intersection to Silah Al Jaw Roundabout. The project included development of infrastructure networks, service roads and side-support through out the road. The expansion of Al Mana signal and conversion of Airport Roundabout, Parachute Roundabout and Airport Commercial street Entrance to the traffic signal, were also included in the project..
The project was also aimed at the expansion of existing Airport Roundabout and converting it into a Traffic signal, which is expected to streamline traffic movement, especially for vehicles coming from D-Ring Road and Wakra and for those going to the airport.
Roadworks delay out of our hands: Ashghal
Web posted at: 5/27/2008 2:16:43
Source ::: The Peninsula / by Mohammed Saeed
Doha • The delay in completing major road projects across the country is caused by factors beyond the control of the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), says an official. Saad Al Messned, Director of Infrastructure Affairs at Ashghal, told Al Sharq that there were several factors which caused the delay – among them were the absence of a master plan, contracting companies getting involved in projects beyond their capacity and the scarcity of building materials. Al Messned said the road projects connecting Doha with other localities would be completed by 2013. As Qatar is implementing a new master plan, the design of certain projects might be modified to suit the new plan being introduced by the Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA), he said. The state allocates land where the real estate companies construct projects for commercial or residential purposes, and these projects sometimes force the authority and UPDA to introduce changes to the roads under construction. About the roads which are expected to be completed soon, Al Messned said Salwa Road would be completed and handed over by the third quarter of this year. Some 90 percent of Oum Baraka Road that links Al Shamal with Ras Laffan has been completed and it will be open for traffic by the end of the year, he added.
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