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Abdul Raoof Pallipparambil, a financial adviser passionate about social work, is making a difference in society by spreading awareness of government schemes in India and promoting financial literacy among Indian expatriates. Better known as Raoof Kondotty, he is a familiar face in discussions about welfare schemes offered by India's central and state governments. He has 400 seminars to his credit and also volunteers with various organisations to raise awareness and help the needy benefit from such schemes. These are in addition to regularly attending TV and radio programmes and writing for newspapers. Raoof is usually busy holding awareness seminars and discussions, preparing notes, sharing expert opinions and monitoring schemes meant for expatriates' welfare. “Expatriates in India often allege a raw deal from the authorities back home instead of benefiting from the existing schemes. I did an initial study in 2014-2015 and found that the utilisation rate of expatriate welfare funds was very poor. I found a lack of resource persons whom the needy could approach to get guidance while applying for government assistance. I then decided to intervene and various organisations helped me reach the expatriates while making them aware of the issue," Raoof said. He informed that the utilisation rate of funds offered through some schemes by the Kerala state government in India, for instance, reached 96% following intensive awareness campaigns. If a scheme is announced and the draft is prepared, Raoof volunteers to keep a close watch on the same and come up with suggestions. When the scheme is launched, he understands the mechanism of how to avail of it and prepares a note that is shared in seminars and through his social media accounts, where the messages are circulated among thousands. “Completing the application for assistance is quite simple," he said. But lack of awareness prevents people from doing so and this often leads to the wrong notion that accessing government schemes is a tough job, he added. Raoof attends several calls a day from early in the morning, talking to expatriates about the steps involved in making various applications or securing certificates. What he gets in return are 'thank you' calls or voice messages from people, noting that their requirements were fairly met. Raoof has a habit of carefully monitoring anything that is announced by the central and state governments in India for the welfare of the Indian diaspora. Sources in miniseries and government departments often help him obtain data related to various schemes. “I study the proposed bills and make my suggestions. Also, I listen to what transpires at the sessions of the Indian Parliament and state assemblies when discussions are held or issues are raised about expatriate welfare. Anything related to expat welfare enthuses me," he said. Raoof's passion for service was instilled in the 1980s when his father Ahmed Kutty wanted his children to help local residents fill up applications for ration cards and school admission. A schoolteacher at Thurakkal village in Malappuram district of Kerala, Raoof's father also worked as an Imam in a nearby mosque and as a teacher at a madrasa. “He wanted to make a change while helping people. I started to learn from him while I was 10 years old," he recalled. Raoof is also an expert on Qatar's labour law and has completed various online courses from the International Organisation for Migration, International Labour Organisation and World Bank. An expert on the Global Compact for Migration, he has actively pursued issues faced by air passengers and spread awareness about Customs rules and passenger compensations while giving inputs for government budgets on expatriate welfare. Participating in activities of organisations affiliated to the Indian embassy in Qatar, he has received several recognitions. These include Best Social Worker Award in the Indian community, a special appreciation award from the Non-Resident Keralites Affairs (Norka) department of the Kerala government, Best Social Worker Award in the Kerala community and Best Expat Welfare Activist award by the Global Educational Organisation. He is a member of Loka Kerala Sabha and the Indian Community Benevolent Forum sub-committee for insurance, a convener of the Norka helpline in Qatar, country head of Pravasi Legal Cell and organising secretary of the Gulf Air Passengers' Association.  

* Public advised on various security issues at MoI virtual awareness seminar The public is obliged to strictly adhere to the measures put in place by the authorities to prevent the spread of Covid-19, an official has said, stressing that violators will face action that includes fines and imprisonment. New Covid-19 restrictions, as announced by the Cabinet on Wednesday, come into effect today. Lt Mashari Abdul Rahman Jameel al-Shammari, search and investigation officer at the Criminal Investigation Department, made the observations while addressing a virtual awareness seminar organised by the Ministry of Interior (MoI)'s Public Relations Department on Thursday. The seminar on ‘Prevention is Better than Cure’ was organised as part of a series of awareness programmes for communities in Qatar. Representatives from various companies and communities attended it. Noting that security is a collective responsibility, Lt al-Shammari shared tips on how to secure vehicles and protect houses, complexes and personal belongings such as the QID and credit and debit cards. He also cautioned against falling victim to various kinds of cheating. “Don't leave the doors or windows of a vehicle open. Don't leave any valuables or sums of money inside a vehicle while it is parked in a public place,” he said, asking the public not to leave unoccupied vehicles running, even if it is for a short while, to prevent thefts. He also advised that attention be paid to every stranger who may come to work in the house or on the premises of a company, whether temporarily or permanently. "Be vigilant to the suspicious and unjustified behaviour of workers inside the company. Inform neighbours or relatives while leaving the home. Ensure that the entire home is secured, and if possible, by installing alarms and surveillance cameras,” he said. Lt al-Shammari said people dealing with bank transactions should be alert. "Keep cash and valuables in hard­-to-reach places inside the home or company premises and don’t neglect them,” he said, advising people to take receipts while purchasing valuables. He also said whoever is found in a drunken state and engaging in indecent acts on public roads will face imprisonment of six months and a fine not exceeding QR3,000, adding that the import, export, sale and promotion of alcohol will be penalised with a jail term of three years and a fine of up to QR10,000. He also cautioned the public against becoming a victim of people impersonating police officers. “You have to ask the person who claims to be a police officer to present his ID if he is not in a police uniform. If he refuses, ignore what he says and report the matter to 999,” he added. The public can contact the emergency number, 999, to report any suspected cases or make use of Metrash2 to register a complaint.    

Deals worth nearly QR390.6mn were signed by the Ministry of Interior (MoI) during Milipol Qatar 2021, Brigadier Saud al-Shafi, assistant director-general of the Logistics Directorate at the Ministry of Interior (MoI) and a member of the Milipol Qatar Committee announced yesterday as the three-day event held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre came to a close. Addressing another press conference marking the conclusion of the event, Major-General Nasser bin Fahd al-Thani, chairman of the Milipol Qatar Committee, said the exhibition evoked a good response despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.  The number of visitors reached 6,600 while 235 media outlets attended the event, he said.  The third day of the event saw the MoI sign agreements worth QR218,292,123.  Announcing the details of the deals, Brigadier al-Shafi said an agreement was signed with Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co for importing various kinds of vehicles for QR8,186,000, while another agreement was inked with Al Kouniyya Company worth QR50,302,165 for importing the materials of ID cards. The MoI also signed a deal with Fahed Trading and Contracting worth QR129,739,000 for importing 77 fire-fighting vehicles for the FIFA 2022 World Cup Qatar while the fourth agreement, worth QR20,064,958, was inked with Mannai Corporation for the design, import, fixing and extension of the Tetra system.  In addition, according to the deal, Mannai Corporation will import caravans and F5 business solutions and carry out maintenance for the ICCS sound system.  Besides these, various MoI departments signed deals worth QR10mn with different companies. Lieutenant-Colonel Nasser al-Otaibi, member of the Milipol Qatar Committee, was present alongside Brigadier al-Shafi at the press conference where the deals were announced. The MoI had on Tuesday signed three deals with Qatari companies worth QR172,287,817, taking the total value of deals signed during the event to QR390,579,940. The 13th edition of Milipol Qatar hosted 150 exhibitors from 17 countries, with 54% of them being new participants. Held under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, the event was organised by the MoI in partnership with Paris-based international event organiser Comexposium and Civipol, the consulting and service company of the French Ministry of Interior. “This is a great achievement for us that we were able to organise this exhibition under the current circumstances,” Major-General al-Thani said.  The exhibition had a total of 150 exhibitors, including 73 from Qatar, with pavilions representing entities from the Middle East, South America, the US, UK, Scandinavia and other places in Europe. The show also featured five international pavilions from Brazil, France, the UK, US and Germany. Major-General al-Thani said the exhibition was attended by dignitaries from Qatar and friendly nations. The dignitaries to visit the event included His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, HE the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani and ministers of interior from Ukraine, Moldova, Pakistan, Lebanon and Iraq. “Apart from local ministers, several ministers, deputy ministers, police chiefs, undersecretaries, gendarmerie commanders and representatives of ministries from different countries visited Milipol Qatar 2021,” Major-General al-Thani added.  Milipol Events director Marie Lagrenee said the event was held against the backdrop of industry forecasts, which suggest the Middle East homeland security market will grow in value to be worth $19.7bn by 2022. She added the total value of deals that have been declared at Milipol Qatar during the past three days reached QR390.6mn.  Major-General al-Thani and Lagrenee thanked the visitors, exhibitors and sponsors for making the event a success. Also present at the concluding press conference was Brigadier al-Shafi.

Global co-operation is needed to overcome cybersecurity and privacy protection challenges, Mika Lauhde, vice-president of Cybersecurity and Privacy, Global Public Affairs at Huawei Technologies, has said. In an exclusive interview to Gulf Times on the sidelines of Milipol Qatar 2021, Mika said co-operation is key for the success of transformation and it can be achieved through partnerships between government, private enterprises and educational institutions. “Companies and government entities as well as individuals fall prey to cyber threats. People need to share information in secured ways. They rely upon governments that are accountable for providing them with security. The government can ensure security by sharing information and co-operating. A lot of co-operation is needed,” he said. The official hailed Milipol 2021, saying it contributes much to the global co-operation and sharing of ideas between companies and countries. “Society becomes increasingly dependent on the Internet and cybersecurity has become a matter of concern with new cybersecurity vulnerabilities emerging,” he noted. He said the Covid-19 pandemic has changed the world, stressing the need to further explore in order to exchange information and overcome the threat. “This pandemic is not the last and we have to find solutions by tapping the potential of technology. Technology has played a pivotal role in minimising the adversity of the pandemic. We need telecommunication to take care of the pandemic. Next time, we have to be much prepared,” Mika said, adding that Huawei could ensure connection between the people while they were isolated. He explained that healthcare needs connectivity to become further hi-tech. “In the future, medical prescription, consultation and surgeries will be done by making use of a reliable telecommunication system from far away. Telecommunication is enabling the future where pandemic and emergencies will be dealt with by using technology and telecommunication,” he said. Mika noted that 5G is a revolution that ensures a better system and develops a new ecosystem. It’s much more secure with speed, capacity and latency while addressing risks, making networks and information more secure and protecting users' privacy. Mika went on to say that Huawei is helping build a new ecosystem and this is achieved by helping stakeholders like healthcare providers, educational institutions and government entities. “We help local people and innovators by enabling them to do their job,” he said. “We are creating a new ecosystem and working with universities in Qatar,” he said, noting that Huawei has a long history of co-operation with Qatar while supporting private and public entities here to combat cyber threats. He said Milipol assumes significance as it ensures the sharing of ideas and experiences. “We are in need for international policies and joint efforts to overcome the threats and understanding about technologies is also needed,” he added.  

Milipol Qatar 2021 has highlighted the General Directorate of Civil Defence (GDCD)’s preparedness to serve Qatar while dealing with emergencies. The Civil Defence pavilion at Milipol, being held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, showcases the latest equipment and mechanisms to deal with emergencies. Among them is the rescue and rapid response vehicle that has a number of special features. Lieutenant-Colonel Jabir Mohamed al-Marri, head of the media and awareness section at the GDCD, said the vehicle is a new addition to the force. It can further facilitate rescue and response services, including fire fighting. “Speed and ability to make urgent interventions make these vehicles special. We have five small vehicles while three big vehicles are ready to serve,” Lieutenant-Colonel al-Marri said, adding that more such vehicle will be added. He explained that these vehicles were brought in as part of the preparations to serve the venues of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The official said the vehicles can facilitate dealing with emergencies as the small ones will have easy access to places like basements while the big ones can fight fire outbreaks and other emergencies in multi-storeyed buildings and stadiums. The Civil Defence pavilion also exhibits latest technologies that the force uses to deal with accidents and emergencies, while emphasis is also laid on raising awareness and spreading safety tips. “We are looking to establish a safety culture among various segments of society while attending exhibitions like this,” he said. As part of World Civil Defence Day, the directorate, under the theme of ‘Civil Defence and a first aider in every home’, is carrying out special campaigns in order to preserve the safety of the people in the homeland by educating family members and instilling safety concepts in them. “A one-year training awareness programme is going on and it targets school students, commercial complexes and State ministries. These are aimed to provide awareness of safety and security procedures in every home,” he added.    

Milipol Qatar 2021 will host three seminars that will focus on the issues of cybersecurity and cyber threats, civil defence and managing the security of major events, and see the participation of thought leaders, the organisers have announced. On March 16, a session on cybersecurity and cyber threats will discuss ‘Cyber Threat Defence: Lessons from SOC’ and other key issues related to the topic. The session will start at 11am and is to be attended by Khalid N Sadiq al-Hashimi, assistant undersecretary, Cyber Security Department at the Ministry of Transport and Communications, along with experts from various firms. A session on civil defence will be held at 2.30pm on March 16, and is to be led by officials from the Ministry of Interior (MoI). Then, a morning session on March 17 will focus on security management for large events and the keynote address will be delivered by Falah al-Dosari, senior manager, Project Stadia, Interpol, while speakers from the MoI will attend the seminar. The participants include government entities and major companies working in the homeland security and civil defence sectors across the world. Milipol 2021 cover areas such as anti-terrorism special forces, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defence, civil defence, data protection, information and communication systems, economic and industrial intelligence, fight against cyber threats and cybercrime, forensic science service, law enforcement, oil and gas sector, port and airport security, border control, prison sector, private security, protection of industrial and sensitive sites, risk analysis and management, road safety, security of public places, urban security, systems integration and transport security. Also, experts from the exhibiting entities will address the seminars. Milipol Qatar 2021 begins tomorrow at Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre and continues until March 17.

  * 71 companies from 17 countries and 72 local firms to attend Under the patronage of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani, Milipol Qatar 2021 will begin at Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre Monday with the participation of 143 local and international exhibiting companies. The expo, which represents a link between global manufacturers, users and security and safety experts, will showcase the latest products and innovations dedicated to homeland security and public safety in the Middle East region, until March 17. The Milipol Qatar Exhibition Committee held a press conference at the Officers' Club Hall, General Directorate of Civil Defence, Saturday to announce the details of the exhibition. Milipol Qatar chairman Major-General Nasser bin Fahd al-Thani told the press conference that all arrangements have been completed for the leading international event in the field of homeland security and civil defence. The three-day event is being organised by the Ministry of Interior (MoI) in co-operation with France-based international event organiser Comexposium. It is held every two years. Major-General al-Thani said the 13th edition of the exhibition features 71 international companies from 17 countries along with 72 local companies, adding that new entities account for 53% of the total participants. Milipol Qatar 2021 will also host five international pavilions representing Brazil, France, Germany, the UK and the US, in addition to individual international companies that will cater to a wide range of regional requirements. The official stressed that Milipol Qatar 2021, which is expected to witness a "great turnout", will take into account all the precautionary and preventive protocols of the Ministry of Public Health to curb the spread of Covid-19. He said this year's edition of Milipol Qatar will provide businesspersons and investors with a comprehensive idea about the future of the internal security and civil defence sectors after the pandemic. In addition, it will create an opportunity for them to be introduced to new international partners for importing and developing technologies and systems that will enhance the preparedness of these sectors in the future. Considering that it is a leading destination for major sports events, Qatar seeks to benefit from the latest technological systems to enhance the safety and security of huge international events, such as the 2022 FIFA World Cup, he noted. In terms of its response to the current challenges, Major-General al-Thani stressed that this international event meets a large part of the growing security needs of Qatar in line with its National Vision 2030, in addition to its role in providing the wider regional needs. The exhibition allows countries and entities to explore the latest innovations and products in the world related to civil defence and internal security, and opens the door for many deals, he added. Milipol Events director Marie Lagrenee expressed pleasure in organising the exhibition despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. She affirmed that Milipol Qatar has strengthened its position in the security market by being one of the most important platforms for business at the level of international industries since the Covid-19 outbreak. Milipol Qatar is already strengthening its presence as a serious business generation platform as it focuses on the industry, she noted. “Visitors, buyers and official delegations will be looking to source new partnerships and secure emerging business opportunities," she said, adding that the event will be a platform that strengthens the co-operation between Qatar and participating countries. Lagrenee praised Qatar's role and its ability to provide a safe environment for its citizens, residents, tourists and visitors alike. She indicated that Milipol Qatar is in line with Qatar National Vision 2030, for a diversified knowledge-based economy and to create a society of peace, security and prosperity. She noted the participation of Barzan Holdings, Strategic Sponsor of Milipol Qatar 2021 and a major Qatari entity participating in the exhibition. Further, she said the expo's international reputation enabled it to attract a range of exhibitors from 17 countries from different regions around the world, including the UK, Scandinavia and other parts of Europe, the eastern Mediterranean, Middle East, Far East and the Indian subcontinent, which showcase a wide range of equipment, systems, products and provide consultations for the internal security and civil defence sector. On the sidelines of the exhibition, specialised seminars will be held on cyber security, cyber threats, civil defence and security management for large events, with the participation of prominent specialists and experts in these fields. Major-General al-Thani thanked the sponsors of Milipol Qatar 2021, who are "contributors to the success of this exhibition". They include Barzan Holdings, Abdullah Abdulghani & Bros Co, Eshhar Security Services, Ooredoo, Outbox, Al Hazm, Saleh Al Hamad Al Mana, Huawei, Stark Motors, Jaidah Group, Notification, MSC Qatar, Dell Technologies, Mannai Corporation, Salam Technology, Nuctech, Qommunication, Milaha and Qatar Airways. (With inputs from QNA)

A quick weekend getaway at one of the pristine beaches or a walk through heritage sites is always an option for Qatar residents to help themselves relax and unwind. Most residents opt for a drive out of the city to explore outer Doha. This, they do with family or friends and in a group of like-minded people. Sanchari Qatar is one such group of travel enthusiasts. However, what makes this group special is a host of factors. They promote traveling while focusing on preserving nature and helping underprivileged people travel and explore by organising affordable trips. “Our motto is Travel with Nature and we do justice to this by exploring while ensuring our activities cause no any harm to the nature,"says Hafeezullah K V, one of the key functionaries of Sanchari Qatar. The group was formed by expatriates as a chapter of Kerala-based Sanchari group that has more than 60,000 members across the world. Formed in 2015, Sanchari has so far organised 18 trips attended by families as well as bachelors. Initially, the functions started with morning walks that later grew to include trips. A core team identifies a place and ensures it has optimum facilities by holding a field visit ahead of the trip. A date is announced and the message is disseminated through the group's social media platform. “We try to make our trips affordable and cost effective by planning properly and taking expert advice. The duties are decided among the members and vehicles are arranged. Group members help each other meet transportation requirements," Hafeezullah disclosed. The group ensures no waste is littered at the sites visited and holds a cleanliness drive in order to stress the message of environmental protection. During some trips, experts are invited to hold talks on the preserving nature. In a bid to encourage enthusiasts, the group holds travelogue writing contests in which the best writers are given prizes. Sanchari has a passion for exploring new and less frequented places. “We explored the Azerbaijani beach at Al Shamal before it became a favourite spot for weekend tourism," he said. Tips are shared on social media platforms after every trip is held in order to help tourists select destinations and reach them easily. Sanchari is planning a slew of programmes to promote travelling while helping underprivileged expats explore Qatar. “There are people who never go for a drive in Qatar. Some are least aware and interested while others are unable to afford trips. We are looking to help such residents while organising exclusive trips for them," he said. The plan is to select such residents,arrange transportation and take them to tourist destinations within and outside of Doha. The plan includes introducing them to facilities like Doha Metro. “The plan had been in the making and steps had been completed but it was put on hold after Covid-19 pandemic," Hafeezullah said expressing confidence of implementing the plan soon.    

Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu and his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov on Thursday praised Qatar's role in helping restore peace in Syria and its humanitarian efforts. Lavrov, while addressing a press conference after a meeting with HE the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohamed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani and Cavusoglu, said joint efforts are needed to safeguard territorial security and rebuild Syria. “I thank Qatar for initiating the meeting and this is the first time it is up to the ministerial level," he said, adding that experts had prepared the ground for the discussions prior to that. “We emphasised the importance of urgent assistance to Syria to help mitigate the pandemic and also to rebuild the civil infrastructure destroyed as a result of the conflict,” he added. Thanking Qatar for hosting Turkey's delegation in Doha for the meeting, Cavusoglu said: “We worked with the Russian side to achieve our objective and will continue our co-operation with Qatar to alleviate human suffering. We have discussed the deteriorating humanitarian situation in Syria and reaffirmed the need to consolidate our humanitarian efforts, especially when it comes to tackling and mitigating the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said, adding that such meetings should continue. “We have decided to host the next meeting in Turkey and thereafter in Russia. Our friends will work in an organised manner to establish permanent peace in Syria and host such meetings for the sake of peace in the region,” he added.    

Careless driving and illegal pedestrian crossing continue to be the causes of concern when it comes to road traffic accident deaths in Qatar. Statistics presented by Col Mohammed Radi al-Hajri, director of the Traffic Awareness Department at the General Directorate of Traffic, on Wednesday showed that negligence and reckless driving accounted for 2,442 accidents at a rate of 42.4% of the total cases. While 21.9% of the cases happened due to not keeping a safe distance, 12.3% were due to deviation from the road. Other reasons including red signal jumping, non-adherence to lane discipline, speeding and overtaking resulted in 13.4 % of the total cases. A total of 69 drivers died in road traffic accidents in 2020, accounting for 50% of the fatality. The rest of the fatalities included 26 passengers (18.8%) and 43 pedestrians (31.2%). The traffic fatality rate in Qatar has continued to decline since 2008 when 230 deaths at a rate of 12 per 100,000 population were reported. It continued to decline over the past years registering only a slight fluctuation within two years. Col al-Hajri noted that the death rate in Qatar is significantly lower than global rates as the country has recorded an accident mortality rate of only four deaths per 100,000 population. African countries have recorded 26.6, Eastern Europe and Asia Minor 18, European countries 9.3, Southeast Asian countries 20.7 and the North and South America 15.6. "More initiatives will be taken up to further bring down the accident rate in Qatar," Col al-Hajri added.

Qatar recorded a remarkable drop in road traffic accidents in 2020 with a sharp decrease of 28.3%. Cases went down to 155,812 in 2020 from 217,353 in 2019. This was highlighted during the press conference by the General Directorate of Traffic on Wednesday. Colonel Mohamed Radi al-Hajri, director of the Awareness and Information Department at the General Directorate of Traffic, said this was achieved by implementing a speech of projects and intensified campaigns including awareness programmes and checks.   “Roads are being developed and several infrastructure projects are being implemented. These have direct impact on the achievement," al-Hajri noted while thanking the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) and the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) for their contributions to develop roads and infrastructure. Al-Hajiri said the Covid-19 pandemic also played a crucial role in decreasing the cases adding that the authorities are looking to further bring down the number. A total of 126 deaths were reported with a decrease of 0.1% while severe injuries were recorded in 540 cases with a drop of 0.30%. In 5094 accident cases, minor injuries were reported while no injury was recorded in 150,052 cases. The General Directorate of Traffic recorded a total of 1,574,812 violations in 2020 with a decline of 20.1% while the number of violations stood at 1,969,896 in 2019.    

The works of mooring berths at Al Wakra, Al Khor, Al Zakhira and Al Ruwais harbours are nearing completion. Around 1,000 mooring lots will be soon available at these ports for boat owners. “Within the scope of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MoTC) strategy of developing Qatar's harbours, the Private Boats Mooring Fields Project enters it's final stage providing some 1,000 mooring lots,” MoTC tweeted. At Al Wakra, 180 moorings for big boats along with 180 small moorings will be available while 68 big boat moorings and 140 small boat moorings are constructed. At Al Dhakira, three big boat berths and 69 small boat moorings are set up while Al Ruwais has 72 big boat moorings and 250 small boat moorings. The berths are being constructed in line with the government’s strategy to develop the marine transport sector. Durable, sustainable and environment-friendly materials are used in order to preserve the environment and marine resources, in line with the docking requirements for boats as well as their safety and protection from hazards. The berths will also keep boats safe from storms and high waves. The project includes the construction of the service buildings and a number of parking lots for boats and cruisers. “Development works include building mooring slips to accommodate boats of various sizes, floating berths equipped with water, electricity and lighting services in addition to Navigational aid and other facilities,” the tweet added. These are built in line with the latest international standards. The project boosts economic development while raising the efficiency and sustainability of the ports’ service facilities helping in regulating mooring of private boats and facilitating the process of towing and unloading of boats. Also, they protect the property of individuals. In 2018, the MoTC started building mooring facilities for private boats at Al Wakra, Al Khor, Al Thakhira and Al Ruwais ports through direct co-ordination with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment’s Fisheries Department. The project’s most important feature is the optimised use of the potential of Qatar’s harbours and establishments, aiming to reduce cost, observe environmental and sustainability standards and codes, and apply the world’s best practices in terms of project design and execution. The authorities have plans to increase the number of mooring berths in the future.

The number of exhibitors participating in Milipol Qatar 2021 has crossed 150 with major Qatari and international firms continuing to register for the mega event. According to the latest figures available on the official Milipol website, the number of exhibitors for the 13th edition of the exhibition has reached 152. The participants include government entities and major companies working in the homeland security and civil defence sectors across the world. Milipol 2021 cover areas such as anti-terrorism special forces, chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) defence, civil defence, data protection, information and communication systems, economic and industrial intelligence, fight against cyber threats and cybercrime, forensic science service, law enforcement, oil and gas sector, port and airport security, border control, prison sector, private security, protection of industrial and sensitive sites, risk analysis and management, road safety, security of public places, urban security, systems integration and transport security. The companies include subsidiaries of Barzan Holdings such as Barood Factory, Edraq Healthcare Solutions and Barzan Aeronautical, as well as BQ Solutions, Qatar Cyber Academy and QSUR Trading, Ooredoo Qatar, Rheinmetall Barzan Advanced Technologies (RBAT) and Louis Marine Equipment Sale, GBM Qatar, GET Group Holding, KTC International Qatar, Global Armoring Factory, European Guarding and Security Services Company, Fahad Contracting and Trading and ISC Group Gulf. A number of leading technology companies from across Europe, the Eastern Mediterranean region, the Middle East and the Indian subcontinent will attend the event while exhibiting a wide range of offerings of equipment, systems, products and sector-specific advice. The exhibition will be held from March 15 to March 17 at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. The event, one of the leading international exhibitions in the internal security and civil defence sectors, was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The organisers have said this edition of the event will be held in an environment marked by precautionary measures in order to reduce health risks. All personal protection systems and equipment will be available during the event. Periodic sanitisation will be carried out in line with the highest health standards approved by the Ministry of Public Health. Milipol Qatar 2021 is an important platform that will help the public access everything related to the field of internal security and civil defence in the Middle East, which is witnessing rapid growth driven by technical developments as well as the growth of internal health and safety requirements in the wake of the spread of Covid-19. The Milipol Qatar event will attract the most prominent bodies in the public and industrial security sector around the world. The exhibition will showcase the latest innovative products and services in the areas of security and safety, protection and prevention devices. The event is expected to meet a large part of the growing security needs of Qatar in line with its National Vision 2030. The organising committee has provided electronic registration for attending the exhibition. Participants can register at https://www.milipolqatar.com/    

It was four years ago that Indian expatriate Khalid found a helpless family after a compatriot died while on his way back home from a mosque at Najma in Doha. Khalid consoled the family and volunteered to rush to the airport where he booked a cargo to repatriate the body. Khalid, an employee with Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), managed to complete the proceedings with the help of his friends and the body was sent within two days. “Soon after I went home, I received a call inviting me for tea. The young man, who received me at the restaurant, told me that the man I helped was his uncle. He told me how invaluable my intervention was for family. That day, I decided to actively get involved in helping to repatriate bodies,” Khalid recalled. Khalid joined the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre’s (KMMC) wing that repatriates the mortal remains of expatriates. Popularly known as Kallu, he is now the general convenor of the wing. Named KMCC Al Ihsan Mayyith Paripalana Committee, it helps clear paper works, repatriate bodies, or perform last rites for burial in Qatar. “There were individuals and groups helping expatriates to complete the formalities. A well set up system was brought in after the committee started functioning in 1995,” says Mehaboob Nalakath, chairman of the committee. To repatriate mortal remains, official documents have to be obtained, including approval from the family, hospital, Ministry of Public Health, police, embassy and customs. We manage to complete the process within one or two days since our volunteers are aware of the steps and well accepted by the authorities concerned,” Mehaboob said. While it comes to burial in Qatar, the wing members get the documents from the hospital and police and take the mortal remains to the graveyard after the last rites. “Our volunteers accompany the relatives and last rites are performed with help from relatives and the respective communities,” said Khalid. Mahboob said assistance has been so far given for repatriation or local burial of 3,000 bodies. Most of the beneficiaries are Indians with 50% of them Keralites. “Service is also given to expatriates from Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal and a few European countries,” Mehaboob added while reminiscing a case of a Bangladeshi worker whose body was kept in the mortuary after relatives could not clear financial dues. “We helped them meet the financial requirement and send the body home within days after we were approached,” he recalled. The functions are run by committee vice president Abdul Salam Cheekkonn and functionaries Mansour Ali, Abbas, Abdul Muees, Nizar, Ismail Madakkara, Yusuf and Imthiyas Puratheel. The committee has a Whatsapp group where functions are co-ordinated. “We get notified after a death is reported. All of us are employed. Available volunteers are assigned and we thank God we can manage things while we do our duties,” Mehaboob said. The Covid-19 pandemic brought tough days for the group with death cases reported. “We found even kith and kin remaining hesitant to take care of the bodies. But, driven by dedication and passion, our volunteers stepped in,” he said. The humanitarian activists have received recognition from government entities, embassies and community organisations. “We are being praised by all and we are getting accolades,” said KMCC Kerala state committee secretary Rayees Ali. Mehaboob, recently, won the Best Humanitarian award by the Indian Community Benevolent Forum in recognition of the services rendered by his group.    

Taking a cue from the good response it has been receiving from the Qatar market, leading fishery Samkna is set to implement its expansion plans by increasing production, distribution and adding more species. This will be achieved by setting up more floating cages within Samkna’s marine site area and enhancing distribution. Mohamad al-Qamra, Samkna General Manager, told Gulf Times that the Al Qamra Group is looking to bring in more floating cages while a specialised factory for sorting and packaging is set to go functional. Mohammed al-Qamra - General Manager of Samkna Samkna for Trading and Import, the owning and operating company of Samkna fish farm, was established in 2015 by Al Qamra Holding as part of its move to support the objectives of Qatar National Vision 2030 by producing distinguished types of fresh fish of high quality and reasonable prices. Touted to be the first of its kind in Qatar, Samkna uses the floating cages technology in open water, 53 km away from the Qatari shore in the north east Ruwais area of Al Shamal. The project is aimed at producing 2000 tonnes annually to meet the needs of the Qatari market. Samkna released the fingerlings in May 2020 while the harvesting started in November. Mohamad Al-Qamra said the product is available in hypermarkets where it evokes a good response from buyers. “A host of factors including quality and freshness makes our product unique. Our fresh fish hit the market within eight hours while the imported fish take days to arrive at the Qatari market. The most advanced technology and presence of dedicated workers help us ensure freshness and quality,” al-Qamra said. Samkna has installed a total of 16 floating cages at offshore marine site spread over a total area of 900000 sq. m. Presently, seabass is farmed in cages taking note of the large demand in the local market. Samkna has chalked out plans to produce yellowfin sea bream, red snapper and sobaity seabream while extending the farming to 24 cages. Al-Qamra explained that one of the key objectives of Samkna is to ensure food security while contributing to raising the self-sufficiency rate of fish in the country by up to 20% by providing a minimum of 2000 tonnes of fresh fish annually. “This is in addition to its contribution to supporting environmental trends, represented by preserving fish stocks and reducing fishing effort , which are considered the most important goals that the state is working to achieve during the current period,” he explained. In order to ensure the high quality of fish and short delivery time to consumers, al-Qamra said a specialised factory was built with the highest standards of efficiency and quality control that are applied in all stages from farming to harvesting. A low temperature ranging between 0-4 degree centigrade is always maintained from the moment of harvesting, transport of fish to the factory, the packing process until the fish reach the consumer to ensure the best quality and product freshness. Samkna’s cages have fish growing nets at 15 m deep and predator nets at 17 m deep with 52 anchors, 1250 m chains, 6920 m ropes, 27 buoys and 4 navigational buoys. The cages are serviced by a feed barge with a feed storage capacity of 320-tonne that is fully automated. The barge also houses staff . The fish farm has an offshore station consisting of a jack-up barge that is used for staff welfare and warehousing purposes. Al-Qamra explained that the project is unique with strong environmental friendly aspects. “Intensive studies were undertaken to ensure Samkna has minimal impact on the environment. The project has been established in an environmentally responsible manner while it's low-risk based on various factors,” he said. There are no coal power plants or large dams or mining sites near the fish farm. Clean electricity for the processing plant is provided by Kahramaa. There are no indigenous people who will be affected by the project. There is no sensitive biodiversity or cultural heritage site on this project. Adding further, he said that the project is run in cooperation with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) that extends support and monitors Samkna’s operations. The future plans include a hatchery and nursery with production capacity of up to 10mn fingerlings per annum. Also, blast freezing, filleting and seafood processing lines to the processing factory have been planned while the size and production capacity of the fish farm will be increased from 16 to 32 cages gradually. A strong marketing and distribution infrastructure with refrigerated vehicles and trucks pool for distribution and expansion of the existing jetty has also been planned. Samkna has taken effective measures to guarantee consistent high-quality and reliable production and feed protocols through several international certifications and internal procedures including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) standard. Samkna introduces the best quality product for its consumer through focusing on the environment and fish welfare starting from the selection of fingerlings source, sustainable feed content and ingredients. Samkna Feed Protocols are designed for higher growth and lower feed factor ratio making it the best fish food for growth while following the GSO, BAP Standards and regulations for food safety and environment nutritionally. The aquaculture firm stated that the farmed fish is at least as healthy as the wild fish because it’s a result of controlled food production in all stages and that farmed fish is one of the richest sources of marine omega 3 fatty acids. Samkna strongly believes in aligning its vision in many areas with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

For many, holidays and special occasions are all about cheer and enjoyment. But, when it comes to celebrations, this group often goes for a different way - to help persons in need to get food. For Food Heroes of Wa'hab initiative, celebration means feeding persons in need by finding surplus food from eateries and companies and getting donations. Since its inception in 2017, Wa'hab has been active as its volunteers distribute food for underprivileged people across Qatar. “Our Food Heroes go to places like labour camps across Qatar and give them food and food kits. Surplus food is collected in order to bring down the food waste and help persons in need to get food," Mohamed Kamal Sikander, one of the Food Heroes. Surplus food is collected from Hamad International Airport (HIA), hotels, restaurants, functions and food festivals. “Our volunteers approach companies, institutions and organisations while introducing our mission. They, in turn, contact us when excess food is available. The food is packed by volunteers who take it to various areas," Kamal said. During the last two editions of Qatar International Food Festival (QIFF), volunteers approached stalls asking them whether they had surplus food, collected surplus food daily and delivered it to the needy. During the latest QIFF event, an exclusive area was set up by Food Heroes for food collection and packing. Lutfi Khan Kakkar, another volunteer, said Wa'hab has developed a well set up network of volunteers who reach the benefactors and beneficiaries. More than 150 volunteers are working with Wa'hab while focusing on Industrial Area and labour camps at Al Khor, Abu Nakhla and Umm Slal Ali. Lutfi said the volunteers could help hundreds during Covid-19 pandemic and Ramadan. Food Heroes take food once they get notified about excess food. And they drive to the focused areas in their own vehicles even as special vehicles are arranged if food is available in huge quantity, and if it needs special care.  A total of 3,886 meals were distributed during Ramadan and on Eid days, to those in need. Kamal said the daily distribution reached 200 kits during Covid-19. As many as 17 tonnes of frozen vegetables were redistributed to the community, among which taxi drivers were given priority after they were found to be hit hard by the pandemic. The distribution was carried while the volunteers adhered to safety measures. Qatar Red Crescent Society also lent a helping hand while organising training sessions for Food Heroes on how to stay safe while helping others during the pandemic. “The initial idea was to reduce food waste and it has turned out to be an initiative that helps many get food," said one of the Food Heroes Mohamed Zubairullah Khan. Taking a cue from the good response the initiative has been evoking, Wa'hab is now set to introduce smartbin, which is the smartest way to compost food waste without the associated hassles. As per the plan, waste will be composted as fertiliser that can be used for homestead farming.    

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has opened the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor six months ahead of the scheduled date, despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic. While addressing the inaugural ceremony Wednesday, engineer Yousef al-Emadi, director of Projects Affairs at Ashghal, also announced the project will be completely delivered by the end of this year with the completion of service roads, beautification and landscaping. The Corridor was built in appreciation of the late Amir of Kuwait, Sheikh Sabah al-Ahmad al-Jaber al-Sabah. At the beginning of the inaugural event, a short video that highlighted the life and contributions of Sheikh Sabah was screened. The 29km Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor extends from Hamad International Airport (HIA) to Umm Lekhba Interchange on Doha Expressway. With 41km of total road works, the project significantly contributes to relieving traffic congestion on Doha Expressway, in particular, 22 February Street. The Corridor serves about 25 residential neighbourhoods, including Al Gharrafa, Al Luqta, Al Rayyan, Al Waab and Bu Hamour, as well as many commercial, educational, health facilities and other vital utilities. Described as a vital artery in the heart of Doha, the project offers a vital alternative route that will serve thousands of daily commuters from the north to the south. The Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor includes the construction of pedestrian crossings, including seven bridges and two pedestrian underpasses, besides 50.5km bicycle and pedestrian paths, in addition to beautification and tree plantation works along an approximate area of 355,642sqm. Qatar's first cable-stayed bridge, longest bridge, longest and deepest tunnel and largest intersection are part of the prestigious project. Commuters from HIA via the new corridor will be able to reach Umm Lekhba Intersection in approximately 18 minutes compared to the current 50 minutes via Doha Expressway and 22 February Street, reducing traffic time by 70%. The Corridor will also form the main link between the north and the south of Doha and create a vital connection between Doha Expressway and Southern Part of Doha Express Highway (Al Wakra Bypass) as well as to Mesaieed Road further south through Al Watiyyat Interchange in Al Thumama where its distribution point to Doha Expressway on one side and to Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor on the other side. The Corridor links the south and north of Doha without the need to pass through Doha Expressway and 22 February Street. Works as part of the corridor include upgrading E-Ring, F-Ring, Mesaimeer, Al Bustan, Bu Erayyen and Lebday roads and sections of Al Markhiya Street. In addition, Ashghal will enhance 12km of local and peripheral roads intersecting with the corridor. The project needed 6,300,000 cu m of excavation, backfilling and paving works as well as the use of approximately 1,442,000 tonnes of asphalt and 1,520,000 cu m of reinforced concrete. The infrastructure lines installed include 220km of communication lines, about 470 km of power lines, 205km of drainage lines extension and about 77km of treated sewer lines. It is worth noting that 60% of the materials used in these works are locally made. The 1,200m long cable-stayed bridge, which has no columns up to a distance of 150m, is supported by about 120 cables and 754 precast concrete pieces of more than 200 tonnes in weight. There are 20 columns and 16 pillars to reach the highest point of the bridge, which is 30m. The bridge is a great leap in the traffic culture of Doha due to its strategic location above Haloul interchange and Faleh bin Nasser interchange on Salwa Road, where it will catch traffic coming to and from HIA and reduce traffic pressure on parallel roads such as Wholesale Market Street and Doha Expressway.

If parents fully vaccinated against Covid-19 return from abroad with children ineligible for vaccination, it is under consideration to make them sign an undertaking to keep the children under home quarantine for seven days. "An announcement in this regard will be issued soon," Dr Soha al-Bayat, head of Vaccination at the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH), told the weekly Instagram Question and Answer programme Wednesday. Children under 16 are not eligible for the vaccination against Covid-19. "If the child is above 16 and for some reason did not take the vaccine, they have to be quarantined along with a parent. Also, if one parent is not vaccinated, they will have to stay with the child in quarantine,” she explained. “Both Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are equally safe and effective. Pfizer vaccine is safe for asthmatic and highly recommended," the official said while answering questions. Those who have registered for Covid-19 vaccination will be contacted as per the priority basis. The duration of Covid-19 vaccination validity for three months may be changed, according to Dr al-Bayat. "The currently set validity does not mean the vaccine is valid only for three months. Studies are on in this regard," she added.