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The Qatar General Electricity and Water Corporation (Kahramaa) achieved in 2020 several remarkable steps towards water security and quality, it was announced yesterday. The water storage capacity reached 2,204mn gallons in 2020 from 1,678mn gallons in 2019 marking an increase of 31%, according to official statistics. Water production went up to 690mn cu m. These happened after Kahramaa implemented a number of strategic projects.  In order to improve the performance of water distribution network, 269km of lines were installed along with tanks while a water tank and a lifting station with a volume of 6.6mn gallons to improve pumping and increase storage capacity were set up in Lusail.  The year 2020 also saw the inauguration of the lifting line at Rawdat Rashid station with an estimated pumping capacity of 62mn gallons per day. Distribution lines of 307km were examined in 2020 while 69km lines were inspected in 2019. Throughout the year, 6,210 complaints were dealt while 336 complaints regarding invisible leaks were addressed and preventive maintenance of 45 water installations carried out. A total of 59 new water harvesting wells were developed and 119 repaired.  When it comes to ensuring water quality, Kahramaa achieved more than 99% for biological conformity, while 95% is recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO). Samples were collected for water quality analysis from 12,720 points including production stations, reservoirs and the distribution network.  A total of 826 approvals for the specifications of water networks related materials, supplied by the contractors to implement the projects, were given. Inspection was carried in 1,117 sites to ensure they comply with the approved specifications. The number of customers reached 184,229 by 2020-end.

The Supervisory Committee of the Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar has added several commendable projects to its credit in 2020. According to information provided by the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), these projects include Ras Bu Abboud Beach Development Project (Package 1), development of various parks, construction of bicycle and pedestrian paths and Central Doha Beautification programme. A digitally generated image of a section of Doha Central Development and Beautification Project Another illustration of Doha Central Development and Beautification Projects A visualisation of Ras Bu Abboud Corniche In February, 2020, Ashghal started implementing the first package of Ras Bu Abboud Beach Development project. The beach is to be developed as a leisure and tourist destination. Besides, the road leading to the beach and Ras Bu Abboud stadium will be also developed as part of the project. The Ras Bu Abboud Beach Development project is implemented on an area of 260,000sq m along a 2.2km stretch. It includes the construction of a 2.2km pedestrian and cycle paths. Also the project includes 11,500sq m of landscaping and planting of about 500 trees. In March, Ashghal started work on the new park at Al Daayen which will be a tourist and leisure destination serving the local residents and people from surrounding areas. In an area of 39,000sq m, the park serves residents of Al Daayen and Simaisma areas. The project includes the construction of green open spaces with seating areas and kids play area. A fitness area will be set up along with pedestrian and cycle paths in order to encourage people to practice sports and maintain a healthy lifestyle. The new park at Al Daayen will also have service kiosks that include restaurants, cafes, toilets and security rooms. Visitors can make use of the 50 parking slots provided by Al Daayen Municipality. More are to be added in the future. There will be decorative lighting poles with special dimmed lighting. Ashghal completed the works of 5/6 Park at Al Onaiza area. With distinct features, the park has lots of features, including a large plant maze, distinguished artworks, vast open green spaces and integrated services that make it an excellent leisure and tourism spot. The entrance and exit of the maze are named after coastal cities of Qatar and the final shape of the map appears clearly when viewed from the sky and the nearby hotels. The hill next to the maze is about 5m high and located in the centre of the park. Being higher than its surroundings, the hill gives an overall 360-degree view of the park. Also, the park includes many utilities and service kiosks such as restaurants, cafes, washrooms and prayer areas among others, in addition to providing seating areas and necessary services for visitors. This is in addition to the columns designated for feeding birds, distributed throughout the park. In June, Ashghal started work on the second and third packages of the Doha Central Development and Beautification Projects. They include the development of six main areas between Corniche Street and A-Ring Road. The projects cover seven main streets where infrastructure development, construction of plazas, pedestrian and cycle paths, installing street lighting network, new traffic signals, road signage and pedestrian crossings will be established. In 2020, Ashghal also announced completion of Al Annabi Street development project in the western Doha area in Muaither, covering many residential and commercial facilities. Pedestrian and bicycle paths were constructed along Al Annabi Street to connect the tracks located on Umm Al-Dome Street and Al-Rayyan New Street.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has opened a bicycle path on the east side of the new Al Hatim Street in Al Gharrafa Area on Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. This was informed by Ashghal on its social media platforms. The 5.4km long cycle path has been set up as part of Ashghal’s efforts to provide residents with space to engage in physical activities and encourage a healthy lifestyle. Officials and students who planted trees at the east side of Al Hatim Street, beside the new bicycle path The Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar at Ashghal had signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Qatar Cyclists Centre of the Ministry of Culture and Sports for developing fast cycling tracks across the country. Ashghal has developed a 5.8km pedestrian path with the cycle track. As part of the development works, 1,500 trees and 160 shrubs were planted. Besides, 336 lighting poles and 22 cycle parks were set up. An official and two students plant a tree along Al Hatim Street, beside the new bicycle path Last month, Ashghal announced the opening of a 40km long cycling path on the Southern part of Doha Expressway with 2,390 lighting poles, 17 cycling parks, 1,930 trees, 24 tunnels and 17 seats with shades. Ashghal focuses on developing infrastructure that enhances sport culture by implementing a connected and safe network of cycling paths in a bid to change the lifestyle of people through using healthy mobility means and exercise. Ashghal is now working to set up a network of cycling and pedestrian paths of about 2,650km by the year 2022. Ashghal’s Olympic Cycle Track on Al Khor Road has set Guinness World Records for the Longest Continuous Cycling Path with 32.869km (20.4 miles). It can be used for international sports competitions, especially because the Olympic Cycling Track has been designed to allow speeds up to 50km/h. Meanwhile, a group of students planted trees at the east side of Al Hatim Street as part of Qatar Beautification and Our Kids Planting Trees Campaign. The event was held in co-ordination with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME). While attending the programme, Mubarak Ferish al-Salem, Central Municipal Council's Constituency 15 member thanked Ashghal for implementing and maintaining infrastructure projects. Al-Salem also appreciated the afforestation efforts by the Supervisory Committee of Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) will start implementing the 'Qatar Schools PPP Development Programme – Package 1' by the beginning of 2021. While talking to Al Rayyan TV, Ashghal's Project Affairs director engineer Yousef al-Emadi said eight school buildings will be constructed over three years. Land plots have already been identified. Of the eight schools, four will be located in north of Doha at Umm Slal and the remaining four in the south of Doha at Wakra/Wukair areas. All schools will be developed simultaneously. While highlighting Ashgal’s contributions in the health sector, engineer al-Emadi said five health centres are currently being developed at Al Khor, Al Sadd, Ain Khaled, Al Wakra and Al Mashaf. They will be handed over to the Ministry of Public Health next year. According to details, given by Ashghal, the South Al Wakra health centre, with an area of 13,000sq m, has 16 clinics and six consulting rooms with a pharmacy, radiology and library rooms. It will have the capacity to accommodate 130 visitors a day for consultation. The health centre in Al Meshaf, with a 23,000sq m area, will house 48 clinics with 23 consulting rooms, dental clinics, a laboratory, radiology and outpatient clinics with a capacity of 600 consultations per day. In Ain Khaled, the HC will have 48 clinics and 25 consulting rooms, eight dental clinics, a laboratory, pharmacy, radiology and outpatient rooms. The building, spread over 27,000sq m, can handle 600 cases per day. The Al Khor health centre will have 60 clinics, 28 consulting rooms and 10 dental clinics along with a laboratory, radiology, pharmacy and emergency facilities. The centre can handle 650 cases a day. In Al Sadd, 1,500 cases can be dealt with on a single day. The centre will have 100 clinics, 22 consulting rooms, eight dental clinics, five ophthalmology clinics, audio test clinics, a recovery centre, isolation rooms, laboratories and radiology, outpatient clinics and a pharmacy, all spread over an area of 29,000sq m. Engineer al-Emadi said Ashghal has remarkably contributed to developing the green spaces and parks in the country by joining hands with the Ministry of Municipality and Environment. He pointed out that main roads were beautified with trees and green spaces. Ashghal, according to him, has made great strides in developing highways and main roads in the country by completing 98% of the main roads, including those serving the FIFA 2022 World Cup stadiums. As much as 828km roads including the first part of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor have been completed, he added.

The Maritime Customs Department at Hamad Port has foiled yet another attempt to smuggle banned tobacco products (tambaku) into Qatar. This was informed by the General Authority of Customs (GAC) on Thursday through a tweet. A total of 4,482kg tambaku was found in 3,586 packs that were concealed inside a consignment of clothes, the tweet explained.    

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) marked remarkable achievements in 2020 while implementing the local area infrastructure development programme. Several projects were completed and some others launched during the year. In February, Ashghal completed development works of roads leading to Al Rayyan Stadium and the streets surrounding Al Bayt Stadium as part of Qatar's preparations for hosting the FIFA 2022 World Cup. The roads were opened in order to provide smooth traffic in the area and facilitate access to the two stadiums. The two projects play a pivotal role in providing direct links to the stadiums, facilitating access to the bus and car parks around them and connect many important arterial roads such as Al Khor Road and Al Egda Street as well as Dukhan Highway and Celebrations Street. The construction of the main tunnel for the sewage network that will serve eight northern districts with a length of 17.2km were completed this year serving Rawdat Al-Jahaniya, Al-Thamid, Rawdat Iqdim, North Al-Nasiriyah, Bani Hajer, Al-Kharitiyat and Izghawa in addition to Al-Rayyan Stadium and the surrounding area. This provides sanitation connections and improving the quality of life, health and environmental conditions in the relevant areas. Ashghal opened two streets and completed the infrastructure works in Rawdat Aba Al-Heran where two streets were developed along with service roads and four roundabouts to link various local areas. The metro stations also witnessed development works as Ashghal completed works of car and bus stops at Al Qassar, Education City and Al Wakra stations while parking lots of Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium (formerly Al Rayyan venue) were opened. Several roads that serve fuel stations in different regions of the country were also completed while the roads connecting and surrounding the Al Wakrah Central Market were thrown open to the traffic. During 2020, Ashghal started a number of new projects as part of the programme. These include the Roads and Infrastructure Project in the South of Al Mashaf (Package 7) to serve 1,389 plots, and Al Kharaitiyat and Izghawa (Package 2) projects to serve 1,386 plots. Ashghal announced the commencement of the Roads and Infrastructure Project in Al Ebb and Leabaib (Package 4) which is located East of Al Shamal Road at Al Kheesa Interchange and West of Street 245 covering part of Al Ebb and Leabaib Area, South of Al Kheesa Road as well as a part of Jeryan Jenaihat Area to its North. Ashghal also launched the West Semaisma (Package 1) which aims to develop internal streets in the area and improve local traffic safety as well as upgrade infrastructure facilities to respond to residents' needs and urban growth in the future. In July, Ashghal signed nine new contracts for infrastructure projects for citizens' lands at QR 3.6bn to serve 5,111 plots Umm Salal Mohamed, Al Meshaf South, Al Ebb and Leabaib Mebirek, Al-Wajba East and Semaisma South.

Al Khor Road, one of the prestigious projects of the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), witnessed remarkable developments during 2020. In September, Ashghal started developing Al Khor link roads network with a length of 28km and converting seven temporary roads into new permanent roads in order to provide better capacity and traffic flow in all directions. The four roads are at Wadi Al Banat, Rawdat Al Hamama, Tenbek and Umm Garn while three are located at Al Daayen. As per the plan, new roads will be expanded to two and three lanes in each direction instead of one increasing the road capacity to 8,000 vehicles per hour and reducing the travel time between these areas. Another view of the Olympic Cycle Track In connection with the National Sport Day celebrations, Ashghal opened the Olympic Cycle Track on Al Khor Road in February Another view of Al Khor Road In addition to the expansion works, the roads will be linked to drainage and rainwater drainage and water networks in addition to telecommunication and electricity networks along with street lighting. The new road design includes green spaces and extended afforestation on most parts of the road. Once completed in 2022, the works here will ensure better traffic flow and connect Al Khor Road to Rawdat Al Hamama, Wadi Al Banat, Al Kheesa, Al Daayen, Umm Garn and Tenbek along with sports and recreational facilities in the area. In connection with the National Sport Day celebrations, Ashghal opened the Olympic Cycle Track on Al Khor Road in February. With a length of 33km and width of 7m, the track is able to host international sporting competitions. The track, with 29 tunnels and five bridges, has been designed to allow speeds up to 50km per hour. Ashghal has provided five car parking areas stretching along the track near Qatar University, Lusail Station, Lusail International Circuit, Semaisma Interchange and Al Bayt Stadium while 1,450 lighting poles have been installed alongside the track. These are in addition to 80 bike racks, 100 benches and 20 rest areas. In February, Ashghal also opened Al Dayeen and North Lusail interchanges. Al Khor Interchange with Lusail North is vital as it ensures easy access to Lusail Stadium. It serves Lusail North, Rawdhat Al Hamama, Al Kheesa and Wadi Al Banat. The interchange consists of four bridges, two exit loops, and four exits along with four underpasses. The interchange will improve traffic in the area, as it provides a free traffic flow to 28,000 vehicles per hour. Al Daayen Interchange consists of two underpasses in Al Khor road facilitating the vehicles ’arrival to Al Daayen and Umm Garn and the surrounding areas. The interchange enhances traffic as it accommodates about 8,000 vehicles per hour as it consists of two lanes in each direction. The interchange serves many vital services and facilities such as the recreational complex, service centre, Al Daayen Health Center, Al Daayen Municipality and other important facilities. Al Khor Road set two new Guinness World Records for the Longest Continuous Cycling Path and the Longest Piece of Asphalt Concrete Laid Continuously.

The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) would have completed 828km of highways by the year-end, according to official figures. The year 2020 witnessed Ashghal opening several roads, contributing much to the highway network. Most parts of Mesaimeer Interchange, including the tunnel linking the Doha Expressway and the Industrial Area were opened. In March, Ashghal opened five new parts of Mesaimeer Interchange. This includes a 3km road linking Doha Expressway and the southern part of Doha, providing free traffic flow for those coming from Doha towards Al Wakra and Al Wukair. With the opening of a new 750m tunnel linking Doha Expressway to E-Ring Road, traffic was opened from Industrial area road towards E-Ring Road, Rawdat Al Khail Street and Doha Expressway. Al Khufoos Street The opening includes a new 1km tunnel towards the E-Ring Road in addition to opening the 1km bridge towards Rawdat Al Khail Street and D-Ring Road to make the bridge open in both directions. Ashghal also achieved remarkable developments within the Al Wakra Main Road Development project. The partial opening of the intersection on the Al Wakra Tunnel was completed the iconic Pearl monument relocated near Al Farda Roundabout so as to to enable the reconstruction of the Pearl Roundabout into a signal-controlled intersection. Al Jabal Intersection was also opened after turning the old roundabout into a signalised intersection. The Duhail Al Gharafa bridge and parts of the traffic lights under Al Shamal Bridge were opened on August 15, 2020 under the development of Duhail Intersection. Consisting of a 400m three-lane dual carriageway to accommodate about 12,000 vehicles per hour on both directions, the bridge provides free-flowing traffic between Al Khafji Street and Al Gharrafa Street and reduces travel time by 95% from West Bay, Al Markhiya, Madinat Khalifa and Duhail towards Gharrafat Al Rayyan, Al Gharrafa and Al Rayyan. In September, Ashghal opened 3,700m long Al Khufoos Street that links Al Furousiya Street in the west and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor to the east and serves Al Murraikh, Al Mehairja and Luaib areas. Al Khufoos Street, which earlier had only one lane in each direction, was expanded with three lanes in each direction to accommodate about 10,000 vehicles per hour, reducing travel time by more than 60%. It intersects with the vital Al Furousiya Street to connect the traffic coming from Al Rayyan and West Doha passing through Umm Al Jamajim Street, Mehairja Street and Umm Al Tin Street to Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor and Al Amir Street (Doha Expressway) to connect traffic to Al Sadd East. Al Khufoos Street provides a direct traffic movement from Doha Expressway without the need to use the parallel Al Waab Street to reach Mehairja, Murraikh and Waab reaching directly to Al Rayyan and Muaither from the vital roads as it provides an alternative route to the parallel Al Waab Street reducing traffic congestion. Ashghal set up a median separating the two directions of the traffic in addition to street lighting, smart message systems and road signs. Pedestrian and cycle paths on both sides of the road were completed. Al Khufoos Street is located in an area that contains many vital facilities such as Khalifa International Stadium, Aspire Zone, Villagio Mall and the Equestrian Club as well as the many educational facilities and schools in the area. It serves the areas of Baaya, Mehairja and Murraikh. The importance of the street increased by it's connection to Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor which is of very vital importance.

The Qatar National Day parade at Doha Corniche on December 18 will be held in compliance with strict safety measures in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, a senior official of the Ministry of Interior (MoI) announced Tuesday. "Entry will be only for invitees, who are the families of the health sector employees and the participating entities," reiterated Brigadier Dr Ali Khujaim al-Athbi, director of Establishments and Authorities Security Department and head of the Security Committee. Addressing a press conference at the headquarters of Establishments' and Missions' Security Department, he explained that only one person will be allowed on one permit. The total number of seats will be 2,569. The metro stations will be opened only at 2pm after the parade and related activities are over. The fireworks will be on the Doha Corniche at 8.30pm. "The invitees will be allowed upon showing Ehteraz green status and undergoing a body temperature check. Also, they must wear face masks, maintain a safe distance between each other and use hand sanitiser. They must stay in their seats and not move until the ceremony comes to an end,” Brig al-Athbi said. The guidelines strictly prohibit smoking in the stands, chanting or using live choirs and singing. The invitees should use the designated paths to the parking spaces as specified in the invitation cards. The National Day parade and the festivities will be telecast live on television channels and Doha 360, which is the official media of the National Day Organising Committee. The parade will start from the General Secretariat of the Council of Ministers building premises, cover the entire Corniche and continue up to the Sheraton Hotel intersection proceeding to the direction of Alfardan Tower and then to Al Barzan Tower from where it will further move to the Theater intersection and the Wadi Al-Sail Fire Station intersection, from where it will move to Al-Mannai underpass, the Souq Waqif signal, and head towards the Amiri Diwan intersection in the direction of Al Fanar and then to QNB signals before culminating at the General Secretariat premises. The Corniche waterfront will be completely closed and only the invitees will be allowed. Al-Athbi said invitees will be given invitation cards with barcodes that determine the route to the car parking. The Qatar Red Crescent Society volunteers will be available at entrances to ensure the compliance of the attendees with health requirements. The organising committee has allocated seats for the invitees in southern and northern platforms to the right and left of the main podium. The total number of seats will be 2,569. They will be available at Al-Bidda platform No. 1 (875), Al-Bidda platform No. 2 (511), Al-Bidaa No. 3 (370), and Al-Bidda No. 4 (813). Parking spaces will be also allocated for the guests in three locations. Western Bidda parking lots near Qatar Bowling Centre have 792 parking lots and the southern Bidda parking lot between the old building of MoI and the platform will give 739 lots while 563 lots will be available at the northern Bidda parking area. There will be medical units on the Corniche to deal with any emergency situations in addition to the presence of civil defence teams.

* 2020, a year of achievements for Ashghal The year 2020 has turned out to be a year of achievements for the prestigious Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor that witnessed several developments throughout the year. According to data received from the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), the corridor witnessed the first opening of the first phase which has reached 75% completion rate. With a length of 13km from Umm Lekhba Interchange in the north to Bu Hamour Bridge, the first phase was opened on September 12. A night view from Qatar’s first cable-stayed bridge An aerial view of cable-stayed bridge 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 was partially opened with a length of 1.2km, is the first of it's kind in Qatar and provides free-flowing traffic between Al Waab and Bu Hamour. In June, Ashghal partially opened a new 900m bridge along Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor in the Bu Hamour area. The new bridge provides free-flowing traffic bypassing the junction between Al Shehaimiya Street and Bu Hamour Street along Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor in front of Abu Hamour Petrol Station, reducing travelling time through the junction by more than 90%, Ashghal has said in a statement. The new bridge connects traffic along Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor from Hamad International Airport (HIA) towards Al Thumama, Mesaimeer, Wholesale Market Street through Haloul Intersection, Salwa Road and Al Mamoura up to Al Waab and Al Rayyan. The new bridge was opened four months ahead of the targeted completion date, Ashghal has stressed. The new bridge is “an artery lying in the heart of a densely populated area that contains many significant facilities” such as petrol stations, shopping malls and markets (such as Wholesale Market), schools and health institutions. It consists of a four-lane dual carriageway with a capacity of about 16,000 vehicles per hour, and road users will be able to reach directly from Salwa Road and Haloul Junction towards the Industrial Area road and HIA without using the signalised intersection between Al Shehaimiya Street and Bu Hamour Street on Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor in front of the Bu Hamour petrol station. In August, coinciding with the start of the new school year, Ashghal opened the traffic signal at Al Waab Interchange as part of the Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor project works. The opening enhances traffic movement in all directions, especially on Al Waab Street and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor, as the old intersection has been expanded from five lanes to six lanes, in addition to providing right turns, to accommodate about 10,000 vehicles per hour. The intersection facilitates traffic movement to many important roads such as Doha Expressway, Salwa Road and Sabah Al Ahmad Corridor. It will also facilitate traffic flow to the Al Waab, Fereej Al Soudan, Al Sadd and Mehairja areas to reach Al Rayyan and Muaither, where many schools, other educational institutions and health facilities are located in addition to residential complexes and malls.

The second and third packages of Doha Central Development and Beautification Projects will be completed in the first quarter of 2022, Ashghal informed. Once completed, the projects will provide a further facelift to Doha through a host of infrastructure development and beautification works, Ashghal’s official website noted. The projects are being implemented by the Supervisory Committee of the Beautification of Roads and Public Places in Qatar at Ashghal. ?The second package is aimed at developing the areas surrounding the National Museum of Qatar and areas opposite to the Museum of the Islamic Art (MIA). This will be achieved through developing and beautifying main streets and internal neighbourhoods in these areas in addition to the infrastructure development works. At an estimated cost of QR342,400,000, the project features developing 8.5km of surface water drainage network, 4.7km of foul sewer network and 6.8km of the electricity network. Besides, 329 decorative lighting poles will be installed and about 1,400 trees will be planted while a green area of 10,000sq m will be developed. Also, 22.6km long pedestrian and cycling paths will be constructed.  The third phase features the development of 10.2km of surface water drainage network, 11.2km of the foul sewer drainage network, 4.7km of the electricity network, installing 515 decorative lighting poles, planting about 3,250 trees, development of about 30,000sq m of green areas and construction of 35.3km-long pedestrian and cycling paths. Besides, all the main streets will be covered with granite. The projects will promote walking, and enhance the identity of Qatar’s historical and cultural legacy and recognise the natural environment of the country. 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 it’s nature and special design”. Qatari artists will submit preliminary artwork proposals for sculptures and murals that would reflect the identity of the country. The initiative would cover different locations, 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.

In a move aimed at promoting national products and facilitating their delivery to consumers, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoCI) Wednesday capped display and marketing services fees of local goods. MoCI announced decision No. (6) of 2020 by the Committee that Sets Maximum Prices and Profit Ratios on capping the services fees charged for displaying and marketing locally produced or packaged food and consumer goods at a press conference at its headquarters. MoCI Quality License and Market Control Department director Mohamed Ahmed al-Bohashem said the decision was issued within the framework of the ministry’s efforts to bolster the national industrial environment, consolidate the achievements of local industries and support national products and showcase their quality. “The decision also falls in line with the ministry’s long-time interest in monitoring national economic developments and transactions in local markets as well as its ongoing efforts to bolster the business environment in a bid to support local dealers, promote national companies and foster their role in contributing to the growth and economic development in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030,” he explained. The decision and its provisions define outlets as stores, markets and sites that display and market locally produced or packaged food and consumer goods. A local supplier is defined as a company, commercial establishment or individual who produces or packages food and consumer goods. The MoCI outlined the maximum service fees to be imposed by retail outlets for the display and marketing of locally produced or packaged food and consumer goods at 10% of their sale value. The decision also defines service fees as the percentage, commission or payments that retail outlets secure in exchange for displaying and providing marketing services for locally produced or packaged food and consumer goods. The charge for displaying and marketing locally produced or packaged food and consumer goods not to exceed the maximum fee and payment deadlines for local suppliers should be honoured. The decision also demands to refrain from practices aimed at imposing service fees, payment deadlines and discriminatory conditions on local suppliers. It should comply with the ratio of displayed local products out of the total percentage of displayed goods of the same type. The aforementioned services include fixed discount percentage, progressive profit margin, new company registration fees, new product registration fees, shelf usage fees, gondola (a type of product display in shops) shelf fees, loyalty programme, service organisation activities (assortment management), presentation and promotion, seasonal promotional services, offers or promotions, opening of new branches, payment method, exceptional payment methods, product display fees and expired products penalty fine. MoCI has explained the services are not limited to these. Retail outlets shall also maintain the current service fees for displaying and marketing goods to which this resolution applies if those fees are less than the minimum stipulated in this regard. The payment deadline to settle dues between retail outlets and local suppliers is 1- 15 days for locally produced or packaged perishable food products. The list of products include vegetables and fruits, fresh and chilled fish and seafood, chilled meats and products, chilled poultry, table eggs, milk and dairy products, bread of all kinds (grain and slices). For other locally produced or packaged food products, its 2-40 days and 3- 60 days for other (non-food) consumer goods or locally produced or packaged goods. The aforementioned deadlines are calculated from the date of submitting the monthly account statement to retail outlets and within a period not exceeding 30 days from the date of issuing the invoice. Retail outlets are prohibited from pressuring dealers to secure service fees and from imposing payment terms or other discriminatory conditions and restrictions in violation of the provisions of the decision. Retail outlets are also prohibited from refusing to deal with local suppliers. Display and marketing operations have been subjected to controls and procedures such as setting the percentage of displayed local products at 50% at least of the same type of all displayed goods. These goods shall be displayed on middle shelves and priority shall be awarded to the display of national products by placing a “national product” label on shelves. MoCI said it would intensify its awareness campaign to promote national products while carrying out inspection campaigns to ensure the compliance of retail outlets with decisions. It has urged all parties to report any violations or infringements through the call centre: 16001 and accounts on social media- Twitter @MOCIQATAR and Instagram MOCIQATAR.

* Facility to serve Al Sadd, Bin Mahmoud and Fereej Al Soudan areas as well as Al Bidda Doha Metro station The Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa) on Monday launched the Al Suwaidi Super Substation, which is the first major substation with a voltage of 132/400 KV to be implemented in the heart of Doha. The substation has been set up at a cost of QR400mn as part of Kahramaa’s plan to expand electricity transmission grids in Qatar. It will serve the Al Sadd, Bin Mahmoud and Fereej Al Soudan areas and also meet the electricity requirements of the Al Bidda Doha Metro station. The overall capacity of the substation is around 1,000MVA, which will be sufficient to provide the three vital residential areas with power along with the Metro station. The inauguration of the substation was attended by Kahramaa officials, engineers, technicians and supervisers. Mohamed al-Kubaisi, head of Transmission Operations and Maintenance Section at the Electricity Transmission Department, told Gulf Times that the substation reflects Kahramaa’s ability to meet new challenges. This, according to him, has been achieved by upgrading and expanding the existing main substation, adding a 400KV grid to it and installing cables with a voltage of 400KV and a length of 16km to connect the Al Suwaidi Substation with the Greater Doha South Substation. Al-Kubaisi said the substation has been set up according to the highest safety and security standards, with 2mn work hours without injuries. “The works were completed within 24 months and this could be achieved despite the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic,” he added. Aisha al-Mohamedi, head of the Transmission Grids Planning Section, said the new substation plays a vital role in providing an alternative power supply for Al Bidda Metro station. “It increases reliability and enhances support for both the Al Sadd and Bin Mahmoud stations as the areas containing these stations are densely populated and are under high electrical loads. The station also allows for the possibility of establishing other stations such as Al Amir area station as well as transferring some of the loads of Al Wajba Super Substation to Al Suwaidi Substation,” the Kahramaa official noted. Ali Rashid, head of the operation team at the Electricity Transmission Department, said the establishment of Al Suwaidi Substation is part of Kahramaa’s relentless efforts to improve the infrastructure of the electricity sector in Qatar and to meet the growing demand on electrical power. “It’s also aimed at enhancing the security and sustainability of the services provided by means of the transmission and distribution grids in a way that corresponds to the operational frameworks of the stations,” he noted.

Indian ambassador Dr Deepak Mittal has said efforts are being made to further strengthen bilateral ties between Qatar and India.  Addressing the media at the embassy on Sunday, the envoy said India is looking to enhance co-operation with Qatar in various sectors, including business, exports, health, pharmaceuticals, IT and energy. “Some 45-50% of India’s energy requirements come from Qatar. We are looking to further explore the sector,” Dr Mittal said, referring to a recent meeting in which HE the Minister of State for Energy Affairs and Qatar Petroleum President and CEO Saad Sherida al-Kaabi held discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on various aspects of India’s energy sector. Dr Mittal also noted that the embassy has chalked out a slew of measures to ensure the welfare of Indian citizens in Qatar. “The embassy and Indian Community Benevolent Forum on Saturday organised a special consular camp at Asian Town where passport and attestation services were provided to Indian workers here,” he said, adding that such camps would be held on the first Friday of every month at Asian Town while separate consular camps would be initiated in different parts of the country to provide passport and consular services to Indian nationals. He noted that a total of 511 attestation services were rendered to community members during the camp that was held on the embassy premises on November 21. According to him, embassy officials are holding visits to jails and detention centres where they speak to Indian citizens. “Every step is taken to ensure the jail inhabitants' welfare during Covid-19. The embassy’s legal wing is providing assistance to all those who are in need. Further, we are taking steps with the authorities to help them get amnesty,” he said, adding the authorities concerned in Qatar are very co-operative in this regard. Dr Mittal, who praised the recent reforms by the Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs, said the ministry is extending support to the embassy in ensuring the welfare of workers. Community organisations were lauded by the ambassador, who said their role is pivotal in ensuring the welfare of Indian citizens. On the issue of academics, the envoy said the country will get two more Indian schools. More details will be available later.

The upcoming Al Gharrafa and Umm Al Saneem parks and the Rawdat Al Khail (Al Muntazah) park which is being expanded, will ensure social, environmental and recreational benefits, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) said. Through its official website, Ashghal revealed that the three parks will have thousands of trees, including local species Ghaff, Samar and Sidra, and plants across vast green areas along with facilities for visitors. The trees will serve as wind breaks and help in reducing dust and lowering heat. The parks will have restaurants, fitness equipment for grown ups, kids’ play areas including those for special needs, and lanes for joggers and cyclists. The construction of the Al Gharrafa and Umm Al Saneem parks and the expansion of the Rawdat Al Khail Park will be completed within the fourth quarter of 2021, according to Ashghal. Each park includes two children’s play areas where the new design enhances the physical and mental well-being of children by providing play stuff for two different age groups of 2-5 years and 6-12 years.  Local companies will also have kiosks to offer products and services to the visitors. Rawdat Al Khail Park, popularly known as Al Muntazah Park, is located in the Rawdat Al Khail area on C Ring Road. Spread across 140,000sqm, the park has many facilities for visitors of all ages. The features include a green arena of 105,000sqm with 1,250 trees, 1,300m long pedestrian and bicycle paths and 401 car parking slots. The proposed Umm Al Seneem Park is located at Hayr Al Zahra Street and Waab Lebarg Street in an area of ??about 130,000 sqm, with many facilities for visitors of all ages. The park features include 102,000 sqm green arena, 740 trees, 1,200m pedestrian and bicycle paths and 378 car parking slots. The proposed Al Gharrafa Park, located at Umm Al Zuber Street, will have an area of ??about 50,000 sqm, with many facilities for visitors of all ages. The features include a green area of 36,000sqm, 307 trees, 650m long pedestrian and bicycle paths and 208 car parking lots.

The 'Better Connections' programme of the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MoTC) has improved the lives of expatriate workers by enhancing their well-being and happiness and ensuring digital inclusion. “The programme has achieved its goals through the contributions of government and private entities to reduce the digital divide and ensure digital inclusion for the expatriate workers segment in Qatar,” the MoTC tweeted. The programme, according to MoTC figures, provided training for 27,000 'digital champions', who in turn trained their colleagues in the use of computers and access to services, as well as facilitating contact with family and friends in their countries. The 'digital champions', after joining the programme, are able to stay in touch with their families and friends to acquire life skills in the digital world. “The programme helped me learn how to use email and Facebook. And we chat with our family on Facebook. Now, my mother and I feel like we are together,” said Om Prakash Singh, one of the beneficiaries of the programme. Mary Ann, one of the volunteers of the programme, said 'Better Connections' is helping the participants stay connected with their families and get information while browsing the Internet. She added that some of them have joined online courses after they became part of the programme. The initiative is aimed at helping workers improve their lifestyle by using ICT tools and developing their basic skills in the digital world. The programme is raising awareness among migrant workers through the Hukoomi portal in five languages. Better Connections is a groundbreaking social integration initiative and a public-private partnership between the MoTC, Ministry of Administrative Development, Labour and Social Affairs and committed partners. It provides access to technology and develops the skills of migrant workers in the use of ICT in order to improve their quality of life and to integrate them into the digital community and wider society. This programme provides free access to refurbished computers and the Internet as well as training for workers in their place of accommodation so that they can become part of the information society, allowing them to communicate with friends and family in their home countries, access government online services, learn about their rights and responsibilities and return to their countries with enhanced IT skills.

The efforts by authorities to make Sealine area accident free have started to yield results, it was announced on Monday. The number of deaths dipped to six in 2019 from eight in 2018. The figures were presented on Monday during a press conference, organised by the Ministry of Interior (MoI) to announce the launching of the safety campaign at Sealine area. In 2017, four accident deaths were reported. Number of fatal accidents also decreased from seven to six in 2019. Accidents, in which severe injuries were reported, dropped to 29 from 31 in 2018 and 2017. Lt Fahad Shareeda al-Abdullah, Traffic Awareness Officer at the General Directorate of Traffic, told Gulf Times that intensified awareness campaigns and intervention resulted in better results. “Roads have been improved and the public are getting more aware of the cause. We are working on various plans to eliminate accidents in the area,” he said. Ali Darwish, assistant executive director of the Ambulance Service at Hamad Medical Corporation, said a total of 1,225 calls received from the area were dealt with last year. Out of these, 660 were based on various illness and 565 were accident injuries. Lt Col Sheikh Mohamed bin Jassim al-Thani, director of the Southern Traffic Department, said the death rate (in the Sealine area) did not exceed 3% of the total traffic deaths in Qatar in 2019.“We have now provided alternatives for youth, and taken all measures to reduce violations and accidents, and we hope for commitment from all,” he said. The official pointed out that more than 150 violating vehicles were seized in the area last week. Director General of Traffic Brig Mohamed Abdullah al-Shahwani, and Traffic Awareness Officer Capt Abdul Wahid al-Anzi, Traffic Awareness Officer were also present at the press conference.

The Ministry of Interior (MoI) has chalked out a slew of safety and security plans at Sealine area which is set to host another camping season. The MoI, in co-operation with relevant stakeholders, on Monday launched a campaign to intensify measures to enhance awareness and intervention in order to protect lives and property. Under the slogan ‘walk safely’, the campaign features certain procedures and rules for camping, especially those related to traffic rules and regulations while all measures will be put in place by Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC) to ensure timely medical care for patients and accident victims. As part of the plan, traffic patrols will be intensified at roads leading to camping places while investigation patrols monitor violations and track unregulated practices and hobbies that cause have traffic violations. Brig Mohamed Abdullah al-Shahwani, director General of Traffic, said that the awareness campaign is aimed at enhancing security during camping in general to ensure safety for campers and visitors. "The Traffic Department along with other parties will intensify their efforts to serve the campers and visitors at all camping places in the Sealine area," he explained. A committee has been formed with the aim of planning, supervising and following up to ensure a safe camping season. He urged all to adhere to the directions from the authorities. Lt Col Sheikh Mohamed bin Jassim al-Thani, director of the Southern Traffic Department, said actions will be taken to reduce accidents during the camping season. “There are strategic objectives for the department to deal with accidents and an executive plan has been developed to raise the level of traffic safety in the area,” he said. "Traffic violations will not be tolerated. All activities by youngsters will be monitored. I urge parents to fully adhere to the conditions of rental, especially with regard to choosing the appropriate bike for children," the official said. Lt. Fahad Shareed al-Abdullah, Traffic Awareness Officer at the General Directorate of Traffic, said that vehicles that are found to be violating the rules will be tracked and action initiated. Capt Abdul Wahid al-Anzi, Traffic Awareness Officer, said the department has prepared a vehicle, equipped with the latest technologies, to carry out traffic awareness activities. “Awareness messages and instructions will be disseminated and leaflets distributed to youngsters,” he said. Ali Darwish, assistant executive director of the Ambulance Service at Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), said that the ambulance at Sealine is capable of responding to emergencies that may happen in the area. "The Sealine area is covered by the ambulance throughout the year. One helicopter is set to serve the area during the camping season. And we are able to take the patients to the hospital and give them care,” he said. Nasser Saadoun al-Kuwari from Mawater Centre presented suggestions and ideas to develop the show circuit in the area, the preparations for the current season as well as the conditions for participating in the show circuit and the safety measures in place. Saleh Hasan al-Kuwari, director of the Natural Reserve Department at the Ministry of Municipality and Environment, gave a briefing about driving habits that may affect wildlife and the environment and the measures taken against violators based on the Wildlife Law and the Ministerial Decision in co-ordination with the Sealine Committee and the Mawater Centre. Guidelines and preventive measures to follow The Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) has requested campers to follow the relevant guidelines and preventive measures to curb the spread of Covid-19. These include maintaining social distancing, wearing face masks and following the rules regarding the size of gatherings determined according to the area and nature of the place, the MME said in a tweet on Monday.