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Qatar residents are increasingly embarking on road trips to and through Saudi Arabia, on account of further relaxation of the visa process and the simplification of immigration and customs proceedings at the Abu Samra border crossing point. “The trend is seeing an upward trend with many going to Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries to spend the weekend," Rayan Travel and Tours general manager Zaheer Yousuf told Gulf Times."Earlier, there was Umrah traffic and some opted to go on trips during the weekend to visit their relatives. Now, there is a sudden shift in the trend after Saudi relaxed the visa process and introduced the instant visa system. People have started to go in big numbers on leisure trips to Saudi Arabia,” he explained.Many visit Saudi Arabia to explore the heritage sites and spend the holidays with relatives and friends. “The attractions include heritage sites, historical monuments, and stunning mountains,” said Ameer Shaji, a member of GCC Trip, a group of travellers in Doha.The condition of roads is remarkably improved in Saudi in line with the boost in the tourism sector. “The new road to Dammam from Abu Samrah border via Khobar has reduced the travel time by one hour and the immigration and customs proceedings at the border crossing are simplified bringing down the waiting time remarkably,” he said.For Qatar residents, among the Gulf destinations, according to Saheer, Saudi Arabia is on the top followed by Bahrain and the UAE. “Oman is also becoming a favourite destination with an abundance of natural wonders,” he said.Ameer said many travellers from Qatar cross the Saudi Arabian border to reach Jordan where they can visit popular tourist sites including the ancient city of Petra, the port city of Aqaba, the Dead Sea, the Cave of the Seven Sleepers and the capital city Amman. Some of them proceed further to Egypt to explore the historic sites and landmarks.Also, business trips, according to travel experts, are increasing with many entrepreneurs opting to drive to Saudi Arabia and the UAE in groups in order to save money. The trend is also boosting the business of travel agencies that offer visa assistance and hotel booking.

The Ministry of Endowments (Awqaf) and Islamic Affairs has urged applicants to complete the registration for Haj as early as possible.While attending Qatar TV’s ‘Hayatna’ programme on Sunday, director of the Haj and Umrah Department at Awqaf Ali Sultan al-Musaifari stressed the importance of early registration for the Haj season.He explained that early registration has proven successful in terms of getting the actual number of pilgrims on time and gives ample time to prepare the services that pilgrims need in Makkah.He said Awqaf developed a plan for the Haj registration after the Saudi Ministry of Haj announced the beginning of preparations for the Haj season and the quota of each country. “Some fields in the registration system were modified to facilitate the procedures for the public considering that this played a major role in developing the pre-plan for registration procedures and studying the observations related to the last season, and avoiding them and setting some points to serve pilgrims during registration,” he said. The deadline for submitting the registration is on October 22.Awqaf urged all those wishing to perform Haj this year to obtain the Haj permits and to contract with licensed Haj operators. The electronic raffle will begin immediately after the completion of the Haj registration and approvals will be sent to applicants during November.Qatar’s quota of pilgrims this year is 4,400 pilgrims. For Qatari pilgrims, the age of those wishing to register for Haj must not be less than 18 years, and they are allowed to register three companions with them. Gulf citizens and expatriates need to be at least 45 years old, and their period of residence in the country must not be less than 15 years. They are allowed to register only one companion per application.

Marking a significant moment in its race towards excellence and quality healthcare, the Primary Health Care Corp (PHCC) on Tuesday launched its Third Corporate Strategic Plan (CSP) under the theme ‘The First Choice for Our Community’s Health’.The programme was held in the presence of HE the Minister of Public Health Dr Hanan Mohamed al-Kuwari and several other dignitaries.Touted as a significant milestone for PHCC, the strategy aligns with the third Qatar National Health Strategy (NHS3) (2024-2030) and the third Qatar National Development Strategy (NDS3) (2024-2030).Addressing the ceremony, PHCC managing director Dr Mariam Ali Abdul Malik unveiled the CSP details for the next seven years noting that the Corporation has witnessed significant developments through its first and second CSPs. “The Corporation continues to address both national and global health challenges, in line with local and global health trends. The scientific studies and reports have shown that primary healthcare systems are the most effective, comprehensive, and equitable in ensuring better health outcomes for communities, compared to other healthcare systems,” she said adding that PHCCC is constantly preparing to face future health challenges in the coming decades, as the health of the population may be negatively affected by changes in lifestyle, especially with technological advancements and the ease of access to everything we need with minimal effort.The speech highlighted the steadfast resilience of Qatar's healthcare system during the Covid-19 pandemic and its impressive performance during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. “Throughout the past decade, PHCC has experienced a dynamic evolution, culminating in its distinguished reputation as a paragon of excellence in delivering top-tier healthcare services to all citizens and residents of Qatar, internationally recognised by the continuous achievement of Accreditation Canada Diamond status,” she said while mentioning the international recognitions won by the Corporation.PHCC, she added, will focus on advancing the delivery of primary healthcare.Assistant Director General for Strategy at PHCC Steven Emery presented an overview of the key achievements attained during the execution of PHCC’s strategy 2019-2023 for each of the six priority areas. He also highlighted key achievements year by year.Earlier, addressing a press conference, he said PHCC's third CSP has been formulated to guide the corporation over the next seven years. “This plan is not just a document, but a commitment to raise the level of healthcare services, enhance access to them, and raise the level of general well-being of communities. PHCC is proud to announce that it has exceeded 90% of its set strategic goals,” he said.While shedding light on the notable achievements, he said six new health centres were opened in strategic locations and the integrated family medicine model was implemented. “In all the health centres the rate of the use of specialised services marked a significant increase. It rose from 53% in 2019 to 70% in 2023. This is in addition to the effective handling and management of 60% of mental health cases within primary care centres,” he explained.Executive Director of Strategy Planning and Health Intelligence Dr Mohammed Ghaith al-Kuwari, said the third CSP focuses on several axes of the health sector such as population health, setting ambitious goals to improve health outcomes, improving the quality of services and facilitating access to them for clients in addition to a renewed focus on sustainability in service delivery.“PHCC will continue to develop its workforce and procedures and use modern technological solutions,” al-Kuwari added.

Milipol Qatar 2024, to be held from October 29-31 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, will highlight the latest innovations and systems in security solutions. According to a post by Milipol on X, the global event will enhance collaboration between government entities and companies to shape the future of policing, internal security and safety.According to the official website, Milipol Qatar 2024 seminars will focus on safety and security with international experts sharing insights and addressing current and future challenges of the sector in the Middle East.Fire and rescue, cybersecurity and threats, artificial intelligence and border controls will be the main topics of the seminars. “A content-rich conference programme is organised to discover new trends and discuss the issues of security market key topics.The seminars will discuss challenges to safeguard high-rise structures, measures to revolutionise fire prevention and road safety and security. Also, security convergence, integrating physical and cyber security in the protection of critical infrastructures will be discussed while the sessions will shed light on integrated technologies for smart and safe cities and forensics science for investigation.Also, mobility will be one of the key topics of Milipol Qatar 2024 where the importance of embracing new technologies in the sector will be discussed. The event will cover light vehicles, heavy vehicles, motorbikes, quad bikes, aeroplanes and helicopters and the means of sea and river travel. This is while showcasing the trends and innovations in the mobility sector.Milipol Qatar 2024 will welcome over 222 exhibitors, 11,500 visitors and 389 official delegates from across the world, showcasing the latest in state-of-the-art security strategies, communication systems, and emergency response tools.The 15th edition of the event, with the theme 'Technology in the service of security,' promises to surpass the achievements of previous editions.It represents not only a platform for showcasing cutting-edge technologies but also a vital forum for international collaboration. This exhibition allows us to bring together global experts and industry leaders to discuss, share, and implement advanced solutions. Qatar's dedication to hosting this event reflects its commitment to staying ahead of the curve in security, ensuring the region remains safe and resilient in the face of ever-evolving challenges.As the Middle East's homeland security market continues to expand, with an annual growth forecast of 14.5% until 2025, Milipol Qatar continues to attract visionary companies from across the globe.Organised by the Ministry of Interior in collaboration with Comexposium Security, representing the GIE Milipol under Civipol, the co-operation implementer of the French Ministry of the Interior and Overseas, the event plays a crucial role in addressing Qatar’s growing security needs and supports the security goals outlined in Qatar National Vision 2030.

The Studio 18 at the Urban Planning Sector recently organised a workshop on digital transformation, presented by engineer Nasser AbuQamar in the presence of Assistant Undersecretary for Planning engineer Turki Fahd al-Turki along with department heads and consultants. Opportunities and challenges of digital transformation in the government sector and the ways to implement the best practices were discussed. The event also covered professional project and programme management while analysing examples, innovations and trends. Held as part of the ‘Knowledge Road Initiative’ by Studio 18, the workshop pointed out that digital transformation changes the mechanism of operations of organisations while delivering value to its stakeholders. “It's not just about adopting new technology; it's about rethinking business processes, culture, and customer experiences to drive innovation, improve efficiency, and remain competitive in an increasingly digital world,” engineer AbuQamar said. The sessions also discussed the key aspects of digital transformation and its benefits to organisations. “Digital transformation often requires a shift in mindset across an organisation, fostering a culture of innovation, agility, and continuous learning,” he said. The workshop shed light on the best practices across the world in urban planning that integrate digital transformation and technology while stressing the need to make use of digital tools to ensure sustainable development and optimise land use. Engineer AbuQamar, who explained the aspects of project and programme management, said managing projects in a coordinated way results in benefits. He also explained the project management methodologies and the roadmap to implementing the effective programme and project management. “Clear vision and objectives, stakeholder engagement, risk management, governance and transparency are the key success factors in project and programme management,” he added. The ‘Knowledge Road Initiative’ aims to connect communities and enable information sharing for the betterment of society. It promotes cooperation in the development sector and transmits good practices to the younger generations.

Highlighting the strides Qatar is making in technology in the construction and services sectors, the ConteQ Expo24 started Monday at the Qatar National Convention Centre. Held under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, the three day expo is an important milestone in promoting innovation, digitisation and sustainable development in the two sectors.HE the Minister of Municipality Abdullah bin Hamad bin Abdullah al-Attiyah delivered the opening address in the presence of HE the Minister of Transport Jassim bin Saif al-Sulaiti, HE Minister of Communications and Information Technology Mohammed bin Ali al-Mannai, president of Ashghal Dr Engineer Saad bin Ahmad al-Muhannadi, ambassadors and dignitaries from various government and private entities.HE the Municipality Minister said Qatar is moving towards a comprehensive digital transformation through numerous initiatives and investments in technology, innovation, and artificial intelligence, with the aim of achieving comprehensive economic development, a key pillar of the Qatar National Vision 2030, striving to build a more productive, diversified and competitive national economy while maintaining the highest quality standards and sustainability.HE the Minister added that digital transformation is a strategic axis for supporting global Sustainable Development Goals by enhancing innovation, achieving resource efficiency, and improving the quality of life in various communities.“ConteQ Expo 2024 is the first of its kind in Qatar, attracting major global entities and marking the beginning of a new era of innovation initiatives in construction technology, the services sector, and digital transformation, adding that it aims to enhance partnerships in these important sectors, explore promising investment opportunities and attract them to Qatar,” HE the Minister noted adding that Qatar's hosting of this important event will contribute significantly to achieving the desired digital transformation in the construction sector, harnessing the latest construction technology and services to improve performance efficiency, reduce human errors, unskilled labour, save energy, and achieve environmentally sustainable development.HE the Municipality Minister exuded his confidence that this exhibition will be a cornerstone and the beginning of a fruitful journey of new partnerships and investments that will enhance the country's economy and benefit all participating entities. Al-Attiyah underlined that Qatar has substantial investments in digital infrastructure and business incubator programs and called on investors and international companies to take advantage of the country’s investment opportunities.The exhibition is a collaborative effort between four governmental entities namely the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI), the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the Ministry of Labour (MOL), and the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal', with NeXTfairs for conferences & Exhibitions as the organiser. It features more than 60 speakers and 250 exhibitors and partners.

Under the patronage of HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani, the Advanced Technology for Construction and Services ConteQ Expo 24, the first of its kind, will kick off Monday and continue for three days at the Qatar National Convention Center. This exhibition is a collaborative effort between four governmental entities namely the Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI), the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), the Ministry of Labour (MOL), and the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal', with NeXTfairs for conferences & Exhibitions as the organizer.The ConteQ Expo24 is an important milestone in Qatar's progress towards technology in the construction and services sectors, chairman of the organising committee Eng. Salim Mohammed al-Shawi has said. In a press statement, issued by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), al-Shawi said the exhibition is held in accordance with Qatar National Vision 2030, particularly in terms of promoting innovation, digitisation, and sustainable development in these critical sectors. “As a promising opportunity to attract investment to Qatar, we are fully confident that this event will be of great importance and will contribute to upgrading our national potential and advancing the country's sustainable development,” he said.“The event stands ready to showcase Qatar's commitment to technological advancement and sustainable development in the construction and services sectors. Industry professionals, technology enthusiasts, and investors are encouraged to attend this transformative event that promises to shape the future of construction and services in Qatar and beyond,” the statement said.Running until September 18, the exhibition will feature more than 60 speakers and 250 exhibitors and partners with the attendance of global tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, Siemens, Huawei, and IBM.The event is expected to attract more than 15,000 visitors. “The exhibition will bring about a technological shift in the construction and services sectors over a 3-day period. Traditional innovation concepts of experts and investors will change as the exhibition opens its doors,” the statement said. The exhibition will feature several panel discussions with the participation of the most prominent speakers in the respective field to cover topics such as expanding the scope of modular construction, shaping tomorrow's workforce, and driving construction productivity using digital and smart solutions and automation, in addition to automation of artificial intelligence and the future of construction of 3D printers with other accompanying workshops at the exhibition. The exhibition will provide an exceptional platform for SMEs and multinational companies to explore the latest innovations, methodologies and solutions in construction technology and services. It will also allow visitors to attend workshops, panel discussions and practical presentations of the latest technologies that will shape the future of smart cities and infrastructure.The benefits gained from ConteQ Expo24 will not only include sharing knowledge, communicating and showcasing modern technologies, but it will also serve as a platform that attracts promising investments to Qatar. It is expected to urge local and international industry leaders to conclude agreements and partnerships and promote innovation and growth that meets the goals of Qatar National Vision 2030.

The Studio 18 at the Urban Planning Sector headquarters recently hosted students from the Department of Architecture and Urban Planning at the College of Engineering of Qatar Unversity (QU).The visit was organised as part of the ‘Knowledge Road Initiative’ by Studio 18. The students, during the visit, toured Studio 18 while exploring the history and future of urban development in Qatar.Assistant Undersecretary for Planning Affairs Office Jassim Salem al-Ansari interacted with the students.Al-Ansari, who explained the ‘Knowledge Road Initiative’ by Studio 18, said the initiative assumes much significance as it connects communities and enables information sharing for the betterment of the society.He added that the initiative is aimed at promoting co-operation in development sector and transmitting the good practices to the younger generations. He also explained the idea of Al Andalus Road which revives the legacy of Andalusia by implementing various initiatives in Spain and the Arab-Muslim world.“The students came here to explore the reality of the architecture and urban planning and designing. The visit lent them insights about the historical background of the population, the current scenario of urban planning and the future projects,” said Assistant Professor at QU’s College of Engineering Dr Sultana al-Nabit. She added that the co-operation between QU and Studio 18 will continue.Training and Research Consultant - Head of Studio 18 Prof Dr Ali Abd al-Raouf explained the features of Studio 18 to the participants. He led the tour and spoke about the historical development, demographics and future urban projects in Qatar while shedding light on the contemporary architecture and trends in the Arab world and preservation and conservation practices in Qatar. He said Studio 18 is a place for creativity and inspiration and it acts as a source of information for experts, researchers, urban planners and students.

The Embassy of India reminded community members Tuesday to strictly adhere to the procedures and restrictions while carrying medicines to Qatar.Addressing an awareness seminar, organised in association with the Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF), ambassador Vipul noted there is an upward trend of cases where travellers from Indian airports are seized in Qatar with prohibited drugs.“The expatriate community, social activists and the media should be cautious and interfere,” he said while drawing attention towards the grim scenario and explaining that several Indian citizens are languishing in Qatar jails after they were caught with prohibited drugs.“A lack of awareness about the prohibited drugs and restrictions in place result in the detention of some. The anti drug law is strong and strictly enforced in Qatar and the convicted don’t go unpunished,” he pointed out.ICBF president Shanavas Bava stressed the need to launch active campaigns to make community members aware of the rules and regulations. He explained the legal and financial assistance provided to the jailed Indian citizens by the embassy and affiliated bodies.First Secretary Eish Singhal urged the travellers to be cautious while carrying the items of others. “In some cases, those sentenced claimed they had been handed over a packet by agents while travelling to Qatar and the packet was found to contain prohibited or restricted items when they landed,” he said.Qatar's Ministry of Interior (MoI) has repeatedly said departing or arriving travellers are not allowed to carry drugs containing narcotics or psychotropic substances except in accordance with the controls and conditions issued by the authorities concerned.These should be carried with a medical report with a validity of not exceeding six months. The report should contain personal details of the patient, medical diagnosis, treatment plan and duration along with medical prescriptions and the scientific name of the medicine.Also, travellers need to ensure that their baggage does not contain narcotic substances or medicinal drugs with dangerous psychotropic substances. MoI has also urged travellers not to carry the belongings of others while travelling to Qatar without checking their contents to avoid legal accountability.“The carrier bears full criminal responsibility if these materials are prohibited in the country. Avoid bringing any suspicious substances or drugs. Because some narcotic substances and medicines may be allowed in the home country but banned in Qatar. Consult the government health institutions to get medicines. Stay away from suspicious places and bad friends,” MoI has warned.Anyone caught for the consumption of narcotic substances can get a fine of not more than QR10,000 and not less than QR5,000. Imprisonment for a period of not exceeding three years and not less than six months and a fine of not exceeding QR20,000 and not less than QR10,000 will be given in case of drug abuse.This applies to whomever imports, possesses, acquires, purchases, receives, transports, produces, extracts, separates or manufactures narcotic substances. Also, those who cultivate or possess or purchase plants listed in Schedule 4 with the intention of illicit consumption or personal use.Travellers can check the list of prohibited drugs at the website of the Ministry of Public Health. Incidents about drug abuse or trafficking could be informed and help could be sought at 2347000 and [email protected].

Noted Spanish scholar and author Jerónimo Páez López has called for efforts to promote scientific and academic engagement and knowledge sharing between the Arab-Islamic world and the West.Speaking at a reception at the Urban Planning Sector headquarters at the Ministry of Municipality office, he noted that engagements to revive the historical bonds between the two communities will benefit both greatly.The Granada-based historian, a honorary guest at Studio 18 of the Urban Planning Sector office, was received by the Assistant Undersecretary for Planning engineer Turki Fahd al-Turki, Assistant Undersecretary for Planning Affairs Office Jassim Salem al-Ansari and consultant at Urban Planning Sector Batti Mubarak al-Naimi.Jeronimo pointed out that the Middle East was the cradle of civilisation and Muslims had a direct impact on the development of European civilisation.“Muslims brought to the West the Arabic numerals, the decimal system and numerous elements that helped Europe achieve development. Islam’s expansion to Europe during its Golden Age is the prelude to the European Renaissance. Muslims were the pioneers of modern science. The Arab scientific revolution in the Middle Ages witnessed the prosperity of astronomy, physics, chemistry, mathematics, medicine, agriculture and agronomy. The Arabic language stood as the catalyst for scholarship and knowledge,” he said.“There were great trade routes that connected Europe, Asia and Africa through the Mediterranean Levant and led to both commercial and cultural exchanges during this age. Also, a dialogue of cultures was fostered along the Silk Roads, from the coast of India to the Horn of Africa,” he said adding that there is a need to revive this legacy of cultural engagement and knowledge sharing.The Spanish scholar noted that the Arab presence in the Iberian Peninsula and Spanish Arabism flourished the idea of cultural exchange.“There existed a rich Arab-Muslim past in Andalusia in Spain. Andalusia still upholds the legacy of a distinguished Arab culture and heritage,” he said.Jeronimo said there is a need to establish a bridge of conversation between the Arab-Muslim world and Spain. He handed over two books about Andalusian history and heritage to engineer al-Turki. This was as part of Studio 18’s information sharing project ‘Knowledge Road Initiative’.Engineer al-Turki said the Urban Planning Affairs is pleased to receive scholars and experts while pointing out that knowledge sharing will lead the way to the comprehensive improvement of cultural and urban growth.Al-Ansari explained the idea of Al Andalus Road which revives the legacy of Andalusia by implementing various initiatives in Spain and the Arab-Muslim world.“Al Andalus was the heartland of the Muslim rule in Southern Spain and it marks the golden age of Islamic civilisation. Al Andalus was a cradle of cultural prosperity and social harmony. For the modern Arab-Muslim world and Europe, there is much to learn in Al Andalus. The legacy of Al Andalus should be revived and the good practices should be adopted by the Muslim world and Europe. Co-operation and engagement between the Arab world and Europe will enhance the efforts to revive the rich legacy of Al Andalus,” al-Ansari added.

The strategy of the Ministry of Transport (MoT) to provide sustainable and ecofriendly transportation with lesser emissions is in full gear while implementing multiple initiatives. A post by MoT on X, on the occasion of the International Day of Clean Air for Blue Skies, on Saturday highlighted its strategy to ensure less emission and sustainability in the transportation sector. MoT said this is one of the top goals of its action plans now and well into the future.Qatar, represented by MoT, has made remarkable strides in electrifying public transportation to implement a zero-emission transition in transportation. Electrified public buses in Qatar reached 73% in the first quarter of 2024 while the plan to reach a 100% electric public bus fleet by 2030 is on track. These are part of MoT’s efforts to achieve zero emission transition in transportation in step with Qatar National Environment and Climate Change Strategy.Also, MoT is planning big to ensure the standards of electric vehicles (EVs) intensifying Qatar’s race to be a major regional hub in Mena in this regard. MoT earlier announced plans to set up a centre specialised in inspecting and testing how far EV specifications conform and comply with those approved in Qatar as well as releasing their certifications.One of the key areas of the Transportation Master Plan for Qatar 2050 (TMPQ) is lowering carbon emissions. The plan aims to preserve the environment while integrating various elements including improving the inter-connectivity of public transport, enhancing road safety and reducing congestion to be a true legacy for generations to come. One of the plan’s deliverables is to ensure minimal environmental and climate impact.The ministry has also launched the Autonomous Vehicles Strategy to regulate the terms and conditions of using such vehicles in Qatar aiming to provide smart, and environmentally conscious transit systems. This enhances Qatar’s global position in terms of adopting e-mobility, supporting innovation, and keeping pace with ecofriendly mobility industry advancements.

The Organising Committee of ConteQ Expo 2024 has unveiled the new ConteQ Expo B2B Matchmaking Tool and mobile app.The innovative platform will facilitate connections between the event participants, allowing them to schedule meetings in advance, access interactive floorplans and interact directly with exhibitors and speakers in addition to various benefits.A ceremony yesterday marked the launch of the media lounge which will be powered by Media City Qatar while providing a cutting-edge environment for media professionals and innovators.Kholoud Yousuf al-Saai, the head of Events Management, said that Media City Qatar is dedicated to nurturing innovation and creativity within Qatar’s media and technology sectors through its partnership with ConteQ Expo 2024.Media City Qatar offers a dynamic environment for media and technology companies, leveraging Qatar’s stable economy and exceptional global connectivity.The committee also unveiled the Mascot of ConteQ Expo24 and the schools that won the Official Mascot Design Competition, launched in co-operation with the Ministry of Education and Higher Education.

The ConteQ Expo 2024 will see the participation of more than 60 speakers and 250 exhibitors and partners with the attendance of global tech giants such as Google, Microsoft, Siemens, Huawei, and IBM. The exhibition is expected to attract more than 15,000 visitors.This was announced in a press conference, held on Thursday. ConteQ Expo 2024 will take place during September 16-18 at Qatar National Convention Centre.The innovative exhibition is a result of collaborative efforts of 4 esteemed Qatari governmental entities: The Ministry of Commerce & Industry (MOCI), the Ministry of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT), the Ministry of Labour (MOL), and the Public Works Authority 'Ashghal’.

In time for the reopening of schools across Qatar Sunday, the General Directorate of Traffic, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and Mowasalat (Karwa) have put in place multiple measures to ensure the safe and smooth transport of students.These include the integrated traffic plan by the General Directorate of Traffic, safety measures on the roads by Ashghal and deploying eco-friendly buses by Karwa to transport the students. The government and private schools across the country will welcome a total of 378,134 students.As part of its continuous efforts to reduce traffic accidents and achieve road safety, the directorate has chalked out a comprehensive plan to facilitate the movement of vehicles and reduce congestion on main roads around schools. Patrols and traffic police will be increased with a focus on intersections and around schools that are prone to congestion.Lt Abdulmohsin al-Asmar al-Ruwaili, traffic media officer at the General Directorate of Traffic, earlier told Qatar News Agency that the department had prepared an integrated plan to control traffic flow during the school year.Ashghal has completed school zone safety measures around 611 schools across Qatar as part of its School Zone Safety Programme. These include the construction and enhancement of roads while adhering to stringent safety protocols.Directional signs, reflective road studs as well as interlocks, kerbs and pedestrian railing are in place near and around schools in addition to road and crosswalk markings, aiming to enhance pedestrian visibility in school zones and adjacent areas and enforcement of a 30 kph speed limit.The General Directorate of Traffic and Ashghal carried out several awareness initiatives to target students, parents, school bus drivers and staff ahead of the beginning of the new academic year.Mowasalat (Karwa) has deployed 3,000 eco-friendly school buses to transport students. Strategy Management Office director Mohamed Ahmed M K Abukhadija told Qatar TV that these buses are equipped with the latest safety and security technology.

The General Directorate of Traffic has warned of the legal consequences of capturing accident photos by unauthorised persons. While talking to Qatar TV, Capt Khalid Abdullah al-Kuwari, Traffic Investigation Officer at the General Traffic Department, said capturing pictures is subject to imprisonment and a fine.Article 333 of the Penal Code stipulates that a person who illegally intrudes into another person’s private life and without their consent shall be punished by imprisonment for a term not exceeding two years in prison and/or a fine not exceeding QR10,000.“The law allows people who cause a traffic accident to photograph and upload on Metrash 2 to prove and record the accident,” he clarified.Capt al-Kuwari explained that filming an accident with good intentions to raise awareness may expose people to legal accountability because there may be harm to the victims due to injuries or deaths.“There are organisations specialised in awareness, such as the Public Relations Department of the Ministry of Interior and the Traffic Awareness and Safety Department of the General Directorate of Traffic,” he said.Capt al-Kuwari noted there is no need to photograph people even when reporting a traffic violation via Metrash. "It’s enough to photograph the license plate and the damage to the car, and then the traffic investigation investigators will communicate with the reporting persons to find out the causes of the accident,” he added.

"When she grows up I will tell my girl the warming tale of unmatched compassion that Qatar showed to save her life," Risal Rasheed turned ecstatic while expressing his gratitude to the gathering Wednesday at the Integrated Indian Community Centre to mark the successful wrap of fundraising for the treatment of Indian baby Malkah Rouhi.“Hundreds stepped in to realise the mission and raised the amount that was beyond my family’s reach,” Risal said thanking the organisations, institutions and individuals who took part in the fundraising for Malkha. The Indian baby has been prescribed a gene replacement therapy and certain expensive drugs to treat Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA).In April, Qatar Charity (QC) launched a drive and set a goal of QR11.65mn for the treatment. The drive was wrapped up on Tuesday following QC recording an overwhelming response from benefactors and accomplishing the desired goal.With the active participation of more than 50 organisations, corporate and education institutions and individuals, the four-month drive envisaged a spectacular spirit of compassion. QC recorded more than 18,000 donors while thousands donated through the drives initiated by organisations and institutions. Many organisations contributed through fundraising events that included a Biriyani Challenge that marked the participation of thousands while some institutions donated salaries.“The credit goes to the joint efforts. We thank and appreciate the high morale that the organisations and the kindness the institutions showcased,” said Indian Community Benevolent Forum (ICBF) secretary Mohamed Kunhi TK while addressing the gathering.“Small donations and even the little acts of kindness have made a big impact. Indian organisations and companies did their bit for the cause and to accomplish the mission which seemed to be undoable initially. We appreciate everyone for the efforts to support the vital cause,” ICBF president Shanavas Bava told Gulf Times.Daughter of Risal Abdul Rasheed and Nihala Nizam, nine-month-old Malkha is now undergoing treatment at Sidra Medicine. It’s learnt that the process to make the medicines available is on. Qatar Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre state president Dr Abdul Samad, ICBF general secretary Varkey Boban and representatives of various organisations were present on the occasion.

After evoking overwhelming response from benefactors and accomplishing the desired goal, Qatar Charity (QC) has wrapped up its fundraising drive for the treatment of nine-month-old Malkha Rouhi.Malkha, an Indian national, has been diagnosed with Type 1 Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), an inherited disease that affects nerves and muscles, causing muscles to become increasingly weak.Type 1 SMA is severe and causes respiratory muscle weakness and respiratory failure.Doctors have suggested a gene replacement therapy and certain drugs.Daughter of Risal Abdul Rasheed and Nihala Nizam, Malkha is undergoing treatment at Sidra Medicine.Rasheed, who expressed his gratitude to the supporters, said that Sidra has started the treatment procedures and expressed his hope that everything will pan out as planned.The QC had made appeals for donations towards the treatment of Malkha.The goal was to raise QR11.65mn.A meeting of Indian community organisations and institutions across Qatar launched a slew of measures to support the QC initiative to help Malkha.“Our collective efforts have yielded the results. The participation of organisations, institutions and individuals is commendable and unforeseen. We thank everyone for everything,” Indian Community Benevolent Forum secretary Mohamed Kunhi TK said, adding that hundreds of organisations turned up to support the initiative.Many organisations contributed through fundraising events that included a Biriyani Challenge, while some institutions donated salaries.

While cycling is becoming increasingly popular across Qatar, indicative of health awareness and sustainability consciousness, many among the public are worried about the dangers posed by irresponsible cyclists. “Some errant cyclists are causing trouble on roads by way of reckless riding and without adhering to the safety norms such as wearing helmets, reflective vests and lights on the bicycles,” an Al Wakra resident told *Gulf Times. Time and again the Ministry of Interior (MoI) has issued advisories urging bicycle riders to use the dedicated cycle path and ride on the right side of the road to avoid accidents and injuries. The MoI has urged cyclists to wear helmets to protect them in case of accidents. “Always ride on the right side of the road. If there are more riders, don’t ride in parallel but one after another,” the latest MoI advisory reads. “If there is a cycle path, stick to it and don’t use motorways or pedestrian ways. “Stick the reflectors on the front and back sides and on the tyres for clear visibility of other road users,” the advisory continues. “Wear a reflective or light coloured dress or safety triangle, especially at night time to make the rider visible to others.” “Avoid busy and speedy roadways as it’s dangerous. Don’t play with bicycles on public roads, such as riding on a single tyre.” "Don’t catch other cycles or vehicles or carry any items in a way that threatens the rider’s safety and others as well. Take care of parked cars as someone will be opening their doors or taking them out of the parked area.” "Use adequate lights in the front and backside of the cycles, bells or horns for alerting others in case of imminent danger. Always hold the cycle handle with both hands except in case hand signs are made to communicate with other road users. Don’t make any bicycle race without prior permission from concerned authority,” the advisory adds. Some cyclists are seen riding on the wrong track and wrong direction. At traffic signals, some ignore the red light and cycle on. “The worst thing about some cyclists is that they choose to ride on the wrong tracks on roundabouts, leaving motorists confused about the direction they are heading,” the Al Wakra resident. “The bicycles have no signals,” he added. “It’s hard to comprehend whether the cyclists plan to turn to the left or right, or go straight at roundabouts and exits.” He added that some of the bicycles don’t have rearview mirrors, and some cyclists can be seen using their mobile phones while riding.