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A guidance tool to promote fair recruitment and employment standards in the hospitality sector in Qatar was launched by HE the Minister of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs Yousuf bin Mohamed al-Othman Fakhro at a webinar on Thursday. 'Promoting Fair Recruitment and Employment: Guidance Tool for Hotels in Qatar, was developed through collaboration between the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs (MADLSA), Qatar Chamber, International Labour Organisation Project Office for the State of Qatar (ILO-Qatar), Institute for Human Rights and Business, and International Tourism Partnership. The guidance tool has been published by MADLSA. “This tool aims to support hotel companies in Qatar to respond to labour rights challenges by implementing appropriate policies and exercising thorough and ongoing human and labour rights due diligence,” according to the introduction. HE al-Fakhro stated that recent labour reforms are within the framework of achieving Qatar National Vision 2030 and the ministry is committed to implementing them within the standards of decent work and the framework of the sustainable growth system for all sectors in the country. The hospitality sector has shown effective and serious co-operation with the ministry in this regard. Since early 2019, MADLSA has formed a Working Group for Sustainable Growth and Decent Work in the hospitality sector with hotel representatives to strengthen standards for fair recruitment in the sector. Qatar Chamber chairman Sheikh Khalifa bin Jassim al-Thani suggested that the hospitality sector, which is vital to the economy as well as a very important part of the Qatari culture, must show its leadership in pushing for labour reforms in Qatar. He affirmed Qatar Chamber's support for hotels to enhance their commitment to the standards of fair employment, which would also benefit all companies in other sectors. The participants of the webinar, also discussed issues related to employment contracts, passports, identity papers, working conditions, workers housing, equality and non-discrimination, changing employer and returning to the country of origin, and grievance mechanisms. The Working Group for Sustainable Growth and Decent Work in the hospitality sector is also subject to review by the Strategic Dialogue Group on Hospitality in Qatar, chaired by MADLSA and including various entities such as Qatar Chamber, Qatar National Tourism Council, Katara Hospitality, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, the 2022 FIFA World Cup Local Organising Committee, ILO-Qatar, the International Trade Union Confederation, and the International Organisation of Employers. While this tool provides specific guidance to hotels in Qatar, many of the lessons are transferable to the hospitality sector globally and further versions could be developed for other contexts. Though based on ongoing discussions and lessons learned from the Working Group sessions, the guidance tool does provide a concise set of key resources for hotels, with practical steps to promote decent work and improve recruitment practices including engagement with placement agencies and service providers. The guidance tool covers three topics. They are ‘defining company priorities and expectations’, ‘due diligence of service providers, placement agencies and recruitment practices’, and ‘improving workplace relations and establishing effective grievance mechanisms’. Designed primarily for hotel human resources managers, general managers and other relevant actors within the industry, the guidance tool provides sector-specific guidance that managers and departments can adapt as appropriate. Hotel managers, brand/group managers and hotel owners are urged to be actively involved in the development and oversight of company policies and procedures in order to follow up on the steps recommended in this tool in a sustainable manner. “Senior management, especially at the brand level, can contribute positively to the organisational culture and facilitate greater industry-level engagement on fair recruitment and decent work,” according to the tool.

There is a marked drop in road traffic accidents in Qatar, despite the increase in the number of vehicles and licence holders, it was highlighted during a virtual awareness seminar on Wednesday. Captain Saud Abdullah al-Hamad, officer of the Traffic Safety Department, noted that accidents came down to 21,7353 in 2019, marking a drop of 2.8% as against 22,3718 in 2018. “This has happened despite the number of vehicles increasing to 16,55704 in 2019 from 15,87819 in 2018 while the number of licence holders went up to 16,12218 in 2019 from 15,28496 in 2018," he explained. The number of road traffic accident deaths declined to 154 in 2019 from 168 in 2018. The accident death rate for every 100,000 people in Qatar is 4.4. “Strict implementation of law, awareness and improvement of roads have resulted in good results," he said while urging everyone not to exceed the speed limits. The event was organised by the Traffic Awareness department at the General Directorate of Traffic in co-ordination with the Public Relations department of the Ministry of Interior.

A virtual awareness seminar by the Traffic Awareness department at the General Directorate of Traffic stressed the need to follow rules on roads and shared tips about safety measures and services, provided by the department. Organised on Wednesday in co-operation with the Public Relations department of the Ministry of Interior (MoI), the programme was attended by officers from Traffic Awareness, Traffic Safety, Patrols, Traffic Investigation and Licensing departments along with representatives from various companies across the country. Traffic Safety officer First Lieutenant Ahmed bin Hamad al-Thani presided. Captain Abdel Wahid Gharib al-Anezi from the Traffic Awareness Department presented a set of traffic advice and instructions related to ensuring safety. He shed light on various awareness initiatives, being taken up by the Department in this regard. Captain Saud Abdullah al-Hamad, officer of the Traffic Safety Department, detailed the tasks of the traffic personnel in regulating the movement of vehicles, supervising and being present on the road to reduce accidents and control violators. “The department carries out studies on all traffic diversions and issues permits related to road closures and plans,” he said. Captain Hamad Talib al-Marri from the Patrols and Traffic Investigation department highlighted the role that traffic patrols play on the roads in monitoring and controlling vehicle movements. “In the wake of precautionary measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19, traffic patrols confirm road users follow the precautionary guidelines by the authorities concerned. These include limiting the number of passengers and wearing masks,” al-Marri said stressing the importance of adhering to traffic rules and avoiding traffic offences. The presentation by Lieutenant Yousef Fahad al-Ali, officer of the Licensing Affairs Department, marked the conclusion of the seminar. He explained the various tasks by the department while supervising the work of the external sections related to driving licences and vehicle licences of all kinds and issuing traffic certificates. He also elaborated on the procedures for issuing and cancelling licenses and documenting the data related to mechanical vehicles and driving licences.

As part of its efforts to improve the healthcare system in Qatar, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is set to develop four primary health centres.  As per the plan, health centres will be set up at Nuaija and Al Themaid while the existing ones will be replaced at Madinat Khalifa and Umm Ghuwailina, Ashghal has informed through its social media accounts.  The development will be carried through the Public Private Partnership model where the opportunity will be given for private investors to Design, Build, Finance, Operate, Maintain and Transfer (DBFOMT). Ashghal has invited expressions of interest for the project. The health centres are expected to be operational by the first quarter of 2024. “Government will establish high-level project requirements including output specifications as well as operational and quality standards,” Ashghal said, adding that the land allocated for the health centres will be leased from the government on nominal rent basis.  Currently, Ashghal is spending big on fostering the healthcare sector of the country as part of its efforts to help Qatar achieve the National Vision 2030. Ashghal has so far completed the construction of health centres at Muaither, Al Wajba, Al Waab and Naufar and they have been handed over to the Ministry of Public Health. This in addition to Al Ruwais health centre that has 48 clinics, 26 consulting rooms, 5 specialised consulting rooms, 4 dental clinics,10 dialysis units, a pharmacy, radiology facilities and a swimming pool, Ashghal also completed the construction of Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) ultra-modern simulation centre that helps healthcare professionals improve their skills and advance the clinical techniques.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) is all set to install decorative walls at various places in the country, a unique initiative to highlight the Qatari legacy. Implemented by the Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places at Ashghal, the project comes as part of the ongoing efforts to revive and maintain the local elements with the urban settings in order to increase the Qatari cultural identity and its public realm. “The design is inspired by the Qatari nature and the local architectural style. It reflects Arab and Islamic art using Kufi calligraphy while adding a touch of nature,” Ashghal informed through its social media accounts. The abstract tree shape on the walls illustrates the native Ghaf tree (Prosopis cineraria) that represents the distinctive beauty of the local nature. The design is based on the geometry of the golf ball and the existing dome of the golf course building The committee works in co-ordination with several ministries and other entities at Qatar, including the Ministry of Transport and Communications, Ministry of Culture and Sports, Qatar Museums, Qatar Rail, Private Engineering Office among others.  This committee is responsible for five major tasks including the construction of central public parks, provision of dedicated lanes for pedestrians and bicycles, development of the Doha Corniche, development of Central Doha, and increasing afforestation and greenery areas. Apart from reviving and maintaining the local elements, the committee is also working to encourage partnership with local artists to add an artistic and cultural footprint in different spaces. The committee has signed contracts with Qatari artists to submit artworks and sculptures proposals in various locations within the project area.  This comes as part of the efforts to raise the aesthetic value of these locations and transform the entire area into a tourist attraction. Contracts were signed with Qatari artists Hassan al-Mulla, Salman al-Malik, Ali Hassan, Wafika al-Eissa, artist Mohamed al-Ateeq and Jameela al-Shuraim.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has completed 98% of roads serving the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums, a giant leap in the country’s preparations for the mega event, a senior official told Gulf Times. “The remaining works will be completed by the first quarter of 2021,” Projects Affairs director engineer Youssef al-Emadi said on the sidelines of the first phase opening of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor on Saturday. About 75% of works have been completed on Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor, which will facilitate access to most of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums including Ras Bu Abboud, Al Thumama, Al Wakra, Khalifa International and Qatar Foundation stadiums. "The remarkable achievements were marked by Ashghal despite the unjust blockade imposed on Qatar, al-Emadi observed. Ashghal has marked a number of milestones in its mission for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 preparations by opening ahead of schedule Al Khor Road and Orbital Highway which provide a direct link with Al Rayyan Stadium, Al Khor Stadium, Lusail Stadium and other sports facilities. In February, Ashghal announced the completion of development works of roads leading to Al Rayyan Stadium and the streets surrounding Al Bayt Stadium. Ashghal facilitated access to the bus and car parks around the two stadiums and connected many important arterial roads such as Al Khor Road and Al Egda Street as well as Dukhan Highway and Celebrations Street with the stadium. Ashghal developed 5.4km roads surrounding Al Bayt Stadium from the four sides, with three lanes in each direction. With regard to Al Rayyan Stadium, the works included developing the roads which provide a direct link to and from the stadium with a total length of about 5km and two lanes in each direction. Three signal-controlled intersections and one roundabout were constructed in order to link the stadium with various surrounding facilities. More than 95% of expressway works serving Al Thumama Stadium was completed with the opening of the new road linking Doha Expressway and Southern Doha Expressway on Mesaimeer Interchange in July. The 7km road enables a direct link with Al Janoub, Ras Bu Abboud and Al Thumama stadiums. The Al Wakra Main Road Upgrade Project eases traffic to Al Janoub Stadium. The Khalifa Avenue project by Ashghal serves the Education City Stadium. The construction of the roads surrounding the Umm Al Juwashin Petrol Station ensures better access to Al Rayyan Stadium.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) on Saturday partially opened the country’s first cable-stayed bridge as part of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. With a length of 1.2km, the bridge was designed pillar-less for a distance of 150m, taking into account all safety factors during its construction. The bridge has 120 supporting cables and 754 precast concrete pieces weighing more than 200 tonnes. Also, 20 columns and 16 piers were set up to reach the highest point of the bridge at 30m. Dr Saad bin Ahmad al-Muhannadi, Ashghal president, said the opening of the first phase of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor came despite many challenges, including the unjust blockade and the Covid-19 pandemic. He stressed that the opening is a testimonial of the work proceeding without interruption, thanking the country’s support for overcoming all obstacles. Youssef al-Emadi, Projects Affairs director at Ashghal, told Gulf Times that the bridge is a major achievement for the authority. The bridge will lead to "a big leap" for traffic movement due to its strategic location above Haloul Intersection on Haloul Street and Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection on Salwa Road where it will receive traffic coming to and from Hamad International Airport and reduce traffic pressure on parallel streets such as Wholesale Market Street, Doha Expressway and 22 February Street. Engineer Ali Darwish from the Highway Projects Department said the cable-stayed bridge is the first of its kind in Qatar and provides free-flowing traffic between Al Waab and Bu Hamour, passing by Haloul Intersection on Haloul Street and Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection on Salwa Road. He explained that the bridge has been opened on a temporary asphalt layer to accommodate traffic in both directions for now, until vehicles are later diverted to its northern part in order to preserve the quality of the final layer of asphalt. * New parts of Duhail Interchange opened In parallel to the opening of the first phase of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor, the Public Works Authority has opened new parts of the traffic signal below Al Duhail Interchange. The efficiency of the old roundabout at the spot was increased by converting it into a signal, Ashghal said. Last month, Ashghal had opened the Duhail-Al Gharrafa Bridge along with parts of the traffic signal, which contributed to improving traffic movement at the northern entrance to Doha, especially in Duhail and Al Gharrafa. * Traffic diversions Some traffic diversions will remain in place along the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor to provide the necessary workspace to complete the construction of the rest of the roads and facilities, considering the provision of accessibility to secondary roads while taking traffic safety precautions along the diversions to avoid any congestion, Ashghal has said. In order to allow the construction of the cable-stayed bridge, Ashghal has announced a partial closure of Haloul Intersection for a period of one month. During the closure period, traffic coming from Bu Hamour Intersection on the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor will be closed towards the Al Maadeed traffic signal to the right and Haloul Street to the left while keeping movement open to traffic in the remaining directions as they are. During the period of traffic change, which will be implemented in co-ordination with the General Directorate of Traffic, road users must use Al Joudi Street and turn left at Al Maadeed Street to reach their destinations. Ashghal has also announced a diversion in Al Gharrafa. An old diversion on Al Ittihad Street (Thani Bin Jassim Street) will be cancelled, and road users heading east could turn back on Al Markhiya Street to reach the eastern part of Al Ittihad Street (Thani Bin Jassim Street) east of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. The exit from Al Luqta Street to Al Markhiya Street will also be closed, and road users will have to turn back at the Tilted Intersection (Al Luqta Street) to reach the Immigration Interchange and make a U-turn back and enter from Al Hamlah Street to reach their destinations. Ashghal has requested all road users to abide by the speed limit and follow the road signs to ensure their safety. VITAL STATS * 1.2km in length, 30m in height * 4 lanes in each direction * 16,000 vehicles per hour * 120 supporting cables and 754 precast concrete pieces * Provides free-flowing traffic between Bu Hamour and Al Waab above Haloul Intersection on Haloul Street and Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection on Salwa Road * Provides easy access to surrounding vital commercial and business facilities

*13km stretch from Umm Lekhba Interchange to Bu Hamour Bridge launched The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) on Saturday announced the launch of the first phase of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor with the 13km stretch from Umm Lekhba Interchange in the north to Bu Hamour Bridge opening up for traffic. The newly-opened part of the highway consists of seven bridges, including Qatar’s first cable-stayed bridge, taking the number of opened bridges on the corridor to 21 out of the total 32, and one tunnel. Three bridges were opened at each of the Umm Lekhba and Al Waab intersections while the tunnel was opened at Al Luqta. The longest bridge is 2.6km long. The cable-stayed bridge, which is now partially open with a length of 1.2km, is the first of its kind in Qatar and provides free-flowing traffic between Al Waab and Bu Hamour. Youssef al-Emadi, Projects Affairs director at Ashghal; Bader Darwish, manager of Ashghal's Highway Project Department; Captain Saoud Abdullah al-Hamad from the General Directorate of Traffic; representatives from the Ministry of Transport and Communication; Central Municipal Council members; and officials and engineers from Ashghal and the contracting company attended the opening ceremony. In a press statement issued by the authority, Dr Saad bin Ahmad al-Muhannadi, Ashghal president, said the opening came despite many challenges including the unjust blockade and the Covid-19 pandemic. He said the opening is a testimonial of the work proceeding without interruption, thanking the country’s support for overcoming all obstacles. Al-Emadi told Gulf Times that the new openings were carried out six months ahead of schedule and they will provide free traffic flow on the corridor and shorten travel time by more than 50%. “The road can now accommodate more than 8,000 vehicles per hour in both directions having a positive effect on traffic on 22 February Street and providing new alternatives for road users,” he said adding that the project is expected to be completed in 2021. Bader Darwish said that the new openings will provide free traffic flow all the way from Umm Lekhba Interchange on Al Shamal Road to Hamad International Airport (HIA) reducing traffic pressure on 22 February Street especially with the start of the new school year. Ali Ibrahim from the Highway Project Department noted that the three new bridges at Umm Lekhba Interchange provide new entrances and exits to Al Gharrafa area. Mohamed Sami from the Highway Projects Department indicated that Al Waab Interchange is witnessing its first opening after converting the traffic light to a three-level intersection where the rest of the vital intersection work is being completed. He said it will be fully opened to traffic this year. Ashghal has opened new sections at Al Waab Interchange, where it opened a 2.6km-long main bridge, as the longest bridge in Qatar that extends from Al Rayyan Tunnel, and passing over the well-known Lekhwya Interchange and Al Waab Street Interchange. A bridge was also opened to connect traffic coming from Rashida Interchange to the main bridge (Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor) with a length of 386m, and the opening of a third bridge linking traffic coming from Al Sadd at Al Waab Interchange with Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor towards Salwa. Three new bridges were opened at Umm Lekhba Interchange bringing the number of bridges that were opened at the largest intersection in the country to five out of nine. The opening includes the link bridge from the north in the direction of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor and Al Gharrafa to include two lanes in one direction with a length of 1,100m. The bridge opposite to Al Gharrafa and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor towards Al Shamal was opened to include two lanes in one direction with a length of 1,400m while the bridge linking traffic coming from Doha in the direction of Al Gharrafa and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor was opened to include one lane in one direction also with a length of 1,000m. The three bridges will ease traffic movement in the area and reduce traffic pressure on 22 February Street, especially on Al Gharrafa Interchange. Al Luqta Tunnel intersects with Khalifa Street and two lanes here link Al Luqta and Al Gharrafa providing an alternative road to the nearby Tilted Intersection. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor extends for approximately 25km from Hamad International Airport to Umm Lekhba Interchange on Doha Expressway. The total road works of the project are approximately 37km. It will significantly contribute to relieve traffic congestion on Doha Expressway in particular, 22 February Street once completed in 2021. The new corridor will be a vital alternative route that will serve thousands of daily commuters from the north to the south of Doha. Commuters travelling from Hamad International Airport 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. Once completed, Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor will link the south and north parts 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. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor has the longest bridge as well as the deepest and longest bi-directional tunnel. It serves 25 densely populated residential areas such as Al Thumama, Al Nuaija, Bu Hamour, Al Waab, Al Rayyan, Al Luqta and Al Gharrafa. The corridor provides easy access to some of Doha Metro stations such as the Economic Zone, Al Waab and Al Rayyan Al Qadeem.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has opened Qatar's first cable-stayed bridge on Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. With a length of 1,200m, the cable-stayed bridge on the corridor extends from Mesaimeer Road to Al Bustan Street and crosses over Halul Intersection on Mesaimeer Road and Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection on Salwa Road. And it provides free traffic flow between Hamad International Airport (HIA) and the areas of Bu Hamour, Mesaimeer and Al Waab. With four lanes in each direction, the bridge will accommodate more than 16,000 vehicles an hour. It will ease the congestion in the vital area significantly. The bridge was constructed without pylons for a distance of 150m, but cables instead for support. The construction needed 854 precast reinforced concrete pieces, each weighing 200 tonnes, and 20 pylons and 16 piers to reach the highest point of 30m.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) today announced opening of the first 13km phase of the prestigious Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor from Umm Lekhba Interchange to Bu Hamour Bridge. The opening was carried at a function, held at Bu Hamour. It marked the opening of a total of seven bridges and one tunnel. These included the country's first cable stayed bridge that's part of the corridor. Eng. Yousef al-Emadi, director of Projects Affairs at Ashghal, told Gulf Times that the new openings will ease traffic from Bu Hamour to Land Mark and will serve various facilities and residential areas. He added that traffic will be reduced to 50% on the stretch by providing free flow. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor extends for approximately 25km from Hamad International Airport to Umm Lekhba Interchange on Doha Expressway. The total road works of the project is approximately 37km.  Once completed, Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor will link the south and north parts of Doha without the need to pass through Doha Expressway and 22 February Street. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor extends for approximately 25 km from Hamad International Airport to Umm Lekhba Interchange on Doha Expressway. 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 12 km of local and peripheral roads intersecting with the Corridor. The total road works of the project are approximately 37 km. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor has the longest bridge, deepest and longest bi-directional tunnel. With a length of 1200 m, the cable stayed bridge on the corridor extends from Mesaimeer Road to Al Bustan Street and crosses over Halul Intersection on Mesaimeer Road and Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection on Salwa Road. The works will be completed in 2021.

* 75% of work completed, project to bring qualitative addition to road network HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz al-Thani on Thursday visited the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor, the first phase of which is set to open soon. After reviewing the work of the prestigious project being implemented by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), the Prime Minister tweeted: “We have completed 75% of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. Today I visited and looked closely at the progress of works,” adding, "it will bring a qualitative addition to the modern road network in Qatar". “We continue relying on local materials and companies for the remaining works of this project and all other projects.” The Prime Minister was briefed about the progress of the project, its advantages, and its integration with the Doha Metro network and the project's landmarks. It has 32 bridges, including the longest bridge in Qatar at 2.6km, the first Cable-Stayed Bridge with a length 1.2km, and nine tunnels, including the longest and deepest two-way tunnel with a length of 2.1km and depth of 25m. The project also provides access to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 stadiums. The Prime Minister was accompanied during the visit by a number of senior officials and engineers from Ashghal and representatives of the implementing companies, the Qatar News Agency reported. Earlier this week Ashghal opened the Al Khufoos Street that links Al Furousiya Street in the west and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor to the east. A traffic signal at Al Waab Interchange which is also part of Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor was opened last month. In June, Ashghal announced 70% completion of the project and opened a new 900m bridge along Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor in the Bu Hamour area. Once completed, the corridor will link the southern and northern parts of Doha without the need to pass through Doha Expressway and 22 February Street. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor extends for approximately 25km from Hamad International Airport to Umm Lekhba Interchange on Doha Expressway. 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 total road works of the project are approximately 37km. The Cable-Stayed Bridge extends from Mesaimeer Road to Al Bustan Street and crosses over Halul Intersection on Mesaimeer Road and Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection on Salwa Road. The works will be completed in 2021. Ashghal has completed more than 87% of the works of the Mesaimeer Interchange that connects the roads of Mesaimeer Interchange, Doha Expressway, southern part of Doha Expressway, Sabah Al Ahmed Corridor, Industrial Area Road and Rawdhat Al Khail Street. The Mesaimeer Interchange integrates with Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor linking Al-Watiyyat Interchange, which is a strategic link between the southern part of Doha Expressway and its main highway.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has announced that police personnel in the country will start wearing new uniforms from Sunday. The newly-introduced police uniforms are approved "based on HE the Minister of Interior's Decision No. 41 of 2020, issued on July 16, regarding the renewal of police uniforms and specifying the badges of military ranks for officers and other ranks, their types and how to wear them", the MoI explained. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Police Training Institute on Thursday. It was attended by Brigadier-General Ahmed Jaber al-Hamidi, chairman of the Committee for Renewing Police Uniforms, and Major Fahad Saeed al-Subaie, director of the Training Department at Police College and a member of the committee. The ministry said all its employees, including officers, non-commissioned officers and personnel, will wear the new uniforms according to the specified conditions. It stressed that the renewal of uniforms is being implemented as part of a comprehensive modernisation process aimed at improving police performance. The uniforms suit the nature of work of various MoI departments and also take into account the public acceptance factor. The MoI noted that the new uniforms were designed to give members of the police force an appearance befitting their stature and the nature of tasks assigned to them. The change process also included "choosing a unified 'theme' for the police identity to be affixed to clothes and cars", the official Qatar News Agency (QNA) added in a report. The new uniforms have been designed while taking into consideration a combination of modern and classical styles, in harmony with the Qatari environment and reflecting its Arab legacy. The uniforms are inspired by the Qatari heritage, reflecting the "different civilisations that have succeeded in the country while adding a touch of development witnessed by Qatar", the MoI pointed out. The Qatar police's military uniform manual classifies uniforms based on seven 'dress codes': ceremony, official, duty, field, specialised field, training and special missions. There are different summer and winter uniforms as well. Special uniforms have been designed for Public Transport Security, Airport Security, Traffic Patrol and Stadium Security Department, as well as for female police officers. Brigadier-General al-Hamidi said at the press conference that the committee took a scientific approach in selecting the new uniforms for the police force. He explained, “The committee communicated with many police agencies around the world and the relevant experiences were studied to take the positive aspects and identify the negatives. After multiple meetings with experts, materials that suit the nature of the country's climate and the tasks of each department were selected. "There were many choices regarding materials and these were experimented with on the ground in a number of departments. After positive results, the final set of uniforms was agreed upon and presented to the competent authorities for a decision. Major al-Subaie told journalists that the amendments include updating the MoI logo on all police force uniforms as well as updating all military accessories, comprising separate pieces that are used with the uniform - such as military ranks, insignia, scope and cordon. In a statement to QNA, Brigadier-General al-Hamidi said the choice of police uniforms came as a result of field studies of the movement and mobility mechanism according to the nature of each unit and department at the MoI, such as field uniforms that fit the nature of work at Metro stations, the Coast Guard and airport, and contain the ministry's logo. The unified logo will be registered as a patent for the MoI, distinguishing it from other types of clothing and that only the police may wear it. In the event of travelling on official missions, the uniforms will have the emblem of the State of Qatar. Adherence to the Islamic veil, customs and traditions were taken into account while choosing the uniforms of working women at the Ministry of Interior, he noted. Further, he said there is a unified military uniform for senior ranks, which will be used for ceremonies, accompanying delegations coming to the country and participating in major international forums, adding that the decoration and edges of the new uniform are derived from the traditional Qatari cloak, 'bisht'.

The importance of communication between the General Directorate of Civil Defence (GDCD) and various establishments for the continuity of awareness programmes that play a vital role in ensuring safety was highlighted at a virtual seminar on Wednesday. Titled ‘Security and Safety Standards of Companies and Establishments’, the event was organised by the GDCD in co-operation with the Ministry of Interior (MoI) Public Relations Department. Representatives of various companies were given safety tips along with directions and updates about various procedures of the General Directorate of Civil Defence. While welcoming the gathering, Maj. Jabber Ali al-Marri, head of Preventive Education Section, noted that the awareness programme was organised after a break of months due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Awareness has a crucial role in protecting all, he stressed. Officials from various sections delivered lectures on the security and safety standards in buildings and facilities. They focused on a number of issues, civil defence procedures for obtaining licenses and certificates and inspections that are carried out to ensure that every establishment follows the rules while it comes to preventing and fighting the fire while highlighting the violations. The officials urged the company representatives to strictly follow the rules and ensure the availability of all essential equipment. Awareness tips on protection during the fire outbreak and use of firefighting were also given. Captain engineer Mohamed Ibrahim al-Sulaiti, head of Engineering Plans Section, explained the proceedings for getting approval for buildings. He said that all the Civil Defence guidelines are available on the website of the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME). “A committee has been formed to review requirements and update to cope with developments according to the suggestions submitted by designers,” he said. Captain engineer Mishal Muhammed al- Mutawa, head of Inspection and Licensing Section described the functions of the section. He said consulting firms which commit certain violations including failure to comply with pre-approved engineering plans and complete the project before submitting the request for inspection are penalised by the section. Captain engineer Khalid Saadoon al-Kuwari, head of Safety Systems Section, gave an introduction to the section and highlighted the importance of using the Civil Defence approved form of regular maintenance. He noted that some of the companies fail to adhere to the approved periodic maintenance and urged all companies to update their contact details in MoI e-services to ease the communications. First Lt. Abdullah Nasser al- Suwaidi, Officer at Operations Department, explained the measures to prevent fire and the proceedings to be taken while fire breaks out. Captain Abdul Hadi Ali al-Marri, officer at Preventive Education Section, explained the measures to be accepted after the fire outbreak. He also explained the use of various firefighting equipment.

Community organisations are chartering flights or arranging seats for Qatar residents stranded in the southern Indian state of Kerala to return to Doha. One flight was chartered by the Kerala Muslim Cultural Centre (KMCC) from Kannur International Airport and seats arranged in a flight from Calicut International Airport. The flight from Kozhikode arrived in Doha on August 19 with 80 passengers on board. Chartered by KMCC Koothuparamba Constituency Committee, the second Indigo carrier with 110 passengers landed on Wednesday. "If during the initial weeks of Covid-19 pandemic, many expatriates wanted to go home, now most of them wish to return to Qatar as the situation is better here,” said KMCC Koothuparamba constituency general secretary Kakkatt Azeez. According to Basheer Khan, KMCC Kozhikode district committee president, the seats were arranged following requests by Qatar residents who wanted to resume their jobs. “Some of them got stuck back at home after they went for vacation while others, who left Qatar due to the Covid-19 crisis, also wanted to come back,” he said. KMCC set up special Covid-19 test camps to screen and certify passengers ahead of travelling. The passengers who returned are now quarantined at various hotels in Doha. "More flights can be chartered to Doha if there is a demand," KMCC Kerala state committee secretary Rayees Ali said. KMCC, according to Rayees, had chartered 37 flights from Doha to Kozhikode, Kannur, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram airports over the past several weeks.

The prestigious Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor project, being implemented by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), will witness a major opening by the end of this month, a senior official told Gulf Times. Engineer Yousef al-Emadi, director of Projects Affairs, explained that work on the project is fast progressing on schedule. In June, Ashghal announced 70% completion of the project and opened a new 900m bridge along Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor in the Bu Hamour area. “Openings will be carried out until the end of this year and several parts will be available for traffic,” he said adding that this year will witness several openings of several projects by Ashghal. Once completed, the corridor will link the south and north parts of Doha without the need to pass through Doha Expressway and 22 February Street. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor extends for approximately 25km from Hamad International Airport to Umm Lekhba Interchange on Doha Expressway. 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 12 km of local and peripheral roads intersecting with the Corridor. The total road works of the project are approximately 37km. Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor has the longest bridge, deepest and longest bi-directional tunnel. With a length of 1,200m, Qatar's first cable stayed bridge is on the corridor. The unique structure extends from Mesaimeer Road to Al Bustan Street and crosses over Halul Intersection on Mesaimeer Road and Faleh Bin Nasser Intersection on Salwa Road. The works will be completed in 2021.

The Doha Central Development and Beautification Projects will provide a further facelift to Doha through a host of infrastructure development and beautification works. The projects, across their three phases, will make the city a ‘destination of choice’ where the needs of its people and visitors will be met and at the same time create memorable experiences by linking people to places and destinations through a convenient, safe and accessible public realm. Besides, Central Doha’s landmarks will serve as points that will help people create their own mental map of the surrounding environment. This will be achieved by providing pedestrian-friendly transportation, including footpaths and crossings, to encourage visitors using various modes of transportation. The projects will promote walking, and enhance the identity of Qatar’s historical and cultural legacy and recognise the natural environment of the country. l First phase  The projects are being implemented by the Supervisory Committee of the Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar at the Public Works Authority (Ashghal). In a statement in June, the authority had said 20% of the works of the first package had been completed. The first phase include infrastructure development works like the development of a foul sewer drainage network, surface water drainage network, a treated effluent network, electricity network and communication network. This phase of the project also includes installing lighting poles, street furniture, traffic signals for vehicles and pedestrians, pedestrian crossings and shared paths for pedestrian and cyclists. The project also aims to reduce traffic volume by promoting pedestrian movement besides increasing tree plantation and landscaping. Abdullah Bin Thani, Al-Dostour, Al-Sakhama, Ras Brouq, Dar Al-Kutub, Bu Hasaya, Al-Ghous and Ras Usheirej streets will be developed in this phase while Abdulla Bin Thani Street will be fully paved with granite slabs and designed to make it possible in the future to close it completely for vehicles during celebrations. l Second phase  Ashghal launched the second phase in June and this phase is aimed at developing the areas surrounding the National Museum of Qatar as well as those opposite to the Museum of Islamic Art (MIA). This will be done by developing and beautifying main streets and internal neighbourhoods in these areas in addition to infrastructure development works. Some 8.5km of surface water drainage network, 4.7km of foul sewer network, 6.8km of electricity network and 22.6km-long pedestrian and cycling paths will be developed while 329 decorative lighting poles will be installed and 1,400 trees planted. Also, 10,000sqm of green areas will be set up. l Third phase  Also launched in June, this phase features the development of 10.2km of a surface water drainage network, 11.2km of foul sewer drainage network, 4.7km of the electricity network, installing 515 decorative lighting poles, planting about 3,250 trees, development of about 30,000sqm of green areas and construction of 35.3km-long pedestrian and cycling paths. Besides, all the main streets will be covered with granite to give the area a unique feature. l Involvement of Qatari artists  Ashghal has signed contracts with Qatari artists to submit artworks and sculptures proposals in various locations within the project area. This comes as part of the efforts to raise the aesthetic value of these locations and transform the entire area into a tourist attraction. Contracts have been signed with Qatari artists Hassan al-Mulla, Salman al-Malik, Ali Hassan, Wafika al-Eissa, Mohamed al-Ateeq and Jameela al-Shuraim. The works and artistic designs resulting from the new contracts would “create a distinctive spirit for the area with a special look matching its nature and special design”. The contracts were signed with the Qatari artists to submit preliminary artwork proposals for sculptures and murals that would reflect the identity of Qatar in the eyes of its citizens and add the imprint of Qatari artists. The initiative would cover different locations, which would be announced later in conjunction with the project schedule and in co-ordination with Qatar Museums, the Ministry of Municipality and Environment and Ministry of Culture and Sports.

   Eng. Yousef Abdulrahman Al Emadi, Projects Affairs Director    Badr Mohamed Darwish, Assistant Manager of Highway Projects Department The Public Works Authority (Ashghal)'s project works are continuing without any interruption despite the unjust blockade or Covid-19, and strong evidence of this can be found in the opening of the Duhail-Al Gharrafa Bridge and a section of traffic signals six months ahead of schedule. This was stressed by Yousef al-Emadi, director of Projects Affairs, on Saturday when Ashghal announced the openings. Al-Emadi told Gulf Times that Ashghal continued its race towards completing various infrastructure projects despite the challenges. “All projects are continuing at the right pace,” he said, exuding confidence in completing the ongoing projects before their deadline. He also noted how the authority sets priorities for major projects that serve large sections of people. On the challenges posed by Covid-19, he said the contractors faced some shortage in terms of manpower but proper planning and expedited works helped them overcome these issues. “Things were appropriately planned and we were ahead of schedule when the crisis started to hit. The works were sped up and we kept up the pace,” he said, adding that the main reasons for achieving the completion of works before the deadline are the construction methodology and availability of materials.  “We study and assess the construction methodology with contractors before starting the works. The ways of reducing the time taken (to carry out the works) are discussed while Ashghal ensures the availability of materials,” al-Emadi said, thanking the contractors for being fully co-operative. Ashghal on Saturday announced the opening of the Duhail-Al Gharrafa bridge and a section of the traffic signals within the Duhail Interchange Development Project on Shamal Road. The opening comes six months ahead of schedule and coincides with the opening of schools for the new, 2020-2021 academic year. Dignitaries present at the opening included al-Emadi; Bader Darwish, Highway Projects Department assistant manager; Mubarak bin Freish Mubarak Alsalem, CMC member (Constituency No 15); Ali bin Khalaf Majrin al-Kubaisi, CMC member (Constituency No 3); and other officials from Ashghal and the contracting company concerned. Al-Salem stressed that the new openings would mostly benefit people residing in Al Gharrafa and Gharrafat Al Rayyan, as well as those visiting vital facilities in the region. The area houses many schools and commercial entities, he said, praising Ashghal for its efforts to complete the project in "record time". Al-Kubaisi said the Duhail Interchange is located in a vital area, in the heart of densely populated zones such as Duhail, Al Markhiya and Al Gharrafa. Meanwhile, Ashghal engineer Saad al-Dousari stressed that almost 60% of materials used in the project works are locally manufactured in Qatar, such as iron, concrete, fittings and most of the asphalt works. These included some 207,000 tonnes of asphalt, about 53,000 cubic metres of reinforced concrete and 14,128 tonnes of iron. Ashghal is proud that it could promote local production while implementing its projects, al-Emadi noted. A number of infrastructure services were also developed within the scope of the project, including 10,722m of rainwater drainage and sewage network to prevent the accumulation of water during the rainy season and 14,205m for laying the treated water network and irrigation pipes, besides the extension of 16.8km of electricity networks. PICTURES: Ram Chand Supplied picture

Shukran Qatar (Thanks Qatar) slogans have filled the streets of Beirut after Qatar pledged to help the blast hit Lebanon and aid began to be flown from Doha into the crisis-hit Middle East country. "After the 2006 war, Qatar stood as the main contributor to rebuild Lebanon. We remember Qatar's generosity and the Shukran Qatar slogans marked our gratitude. The same slogan is now back on our streets,” Ziad Nassar, an activist of the Minteshreen Youth Movement, told Gulf Times. He expressed gratitude to Qatar, as well as businesses and entrepreneurs for donating a portion of their sales proceeds to help their Lebanese sisters and brothers. NGOs, youth movements and rights groups in Lebanon have hailed Qatar’s "instant, effective" aid for Lebanon, which has been reeling under shortages after the August 4 deadly explosion that hit the Beirut port, devastating surrounding areas. They said Qatar’s generosity was "not surprising at all and memorable". They have urged Qatar to play a leading role in bringing an end to the long pending political chaos and help the youth put pressure on the government to work towards establishing a true democratic state where justice reigns. The port explosions caused at least 172 deaths, 6,000 injuries, $10–15 billion in property damage, and left an estimated 300,000 people homeless. “Already hit by a political and economic crisis, the blast has aggravated the plight by causing a big humanitarian disaster. Qatar's help has come as a big relief and at the right time,” he said. Since the October Revolution of 2019 in Lebanon, the 28-year old Qatar resident has been active in Beirut taking part in protests and relief activities. “No surprise to see Qatar in the forefront while it comes to helping Lebanon. Qatar has always been there to support Lebanon whether politically or financially when faced with hardships. Qatar has a penchant for extending relief to us. And this legacy remains intact,” he said, reminiscing several occasions where Qatar played a pivotal role in restoring peace and political stability in his country. Qatar has so far provided $50mn in aid to Lebanon and is expected to unveil plans to help rebuild the devastated capital. The ‘Lebanon in Our Hearts’ fundraising campaign raised over QR94mn, after Qatari citizens and organisations joined hands to help Beirut blast victims. In order to help the blast victims, Minteshreen along with other organisations, has set up a Base Camp where stations supply food and tools and first aid round the clock, all covered by volunteers and donations. The group is helping clear and assess the damage caused by the blast. Safety guidance is also given besides mental and emotional support through a clinic. Qatar has sent a fully-equipped team from the Qatari International Search and Rescue Group and established two field hospitals in Beirut. Qatar Airways has launched an aid programme that has enabled citizens and residents of Qatar to donate essential supplies. On Thursday, two aircraft of the Amiri Air Force landed at Beirut's Rafic Hariri International Airport with 44 tonnes of medical and humanitarian aid. Another cargo plane carrying tonnes of relief aid, food and other essential items for those affected by the Beirut explosion has also arrived in Beirut. Ziad said this help comes despite Qatar having faced bitter political experience from some parties in Lebanon. Alleging lack of transparency on part of the Lebanese government in spending funds, Ziad urged the international community to help the victims through NGOs and other support groups. “The country is in dire need of help from the international community to minimise the suffering. Complete absence of Lebanese government in serving on the ground and extending relief is beyond evident. We urge the international community and Qatar to put pressure on the government to announce early elections,” he said and demanded an international investigation into the explosion. “The number of casualties as well as the real size of the damage remain unknown. But, what we all know now is that the government was aware of the presence of a 'mini nuclear bomb' in the middle of our capital. We paid the price for its laxity of storing explosives in residential areas,” he said, adding nothing but only an international investigation will shed light into the facts. “Our government’s credentials are dubious. Countries like Qatar can play a pivotal role to help us Lebanese achieve our demands and take our country to a new era,” he said.