Tribune News Network
Doha
Ashghal held a workshop on Saturday to bring its employees and partners up to speed on an action plan the Public Works Authority has come up with to deal with possible rain-related exigencies.
The workshop, headed by Ashghal President Saad bin Ahmad al Muhannadi, highlighted the authority’s preparations for the rainy season and measures to be initiated to prevent waterlogging.
Attended by several senior engineers and officials from Ashghal as well as a large number of drainage contractors, the event discussed short-term responses to tackle the adverse effects of the upcoming rainy season and long-term plans to adapt to the changing climate.
It also discussed future and permanent projects to deal with excess rainwater and the impact of runoffs on highways and main roads.
Ashghal’s officials presented procedures formulated to deal with possible adverse impact of rain on upcoming mega events, such as the Gulf Cup and the FIFA Club World Cup slated for November and December 2019 respectively.
The Ashghal president instructed contractors and officials concerned to give utmost priority to the safety of road-users and take precautions to prevent waterlogging on highways, main roads and tunnels. He also directed contractors to finish works on the drainage system on time.
Ashghal is currently engaged in a nationwide overhaul of the drainage system. Several major projects are also under way for proper discharge of surface water, such as the Mesaimeer Outfall Tunnel Project.
These measures are in addition to the completion of 20 short-term projects to prevent waterlogging at vulnerable areas in Doha by enhancing operational readiness. They include the installation of temporary overland pipes with pumps to clear water from streets. These measures are in place in areas which were heavily impacted by waterlogging last year, including Education City, Umm Ebairiya, Al Wakrah, Al Wukair, Arabian Gulf Street and University Street.