Doha, September 28 (QNA) - The Public Works Authority (Ashghal) announced the award of 13 new contracts worth QR 12 billion to enhance the infrastructure of road and drainage networks and public buildings, and to improve the quality of life in Qatar.
HE President of Ashghal Eng. Mohammed bin Abdulaziz Al Meer stated that the new contracts represent a strategic step that strengthens the sustainability and integration of infrastructure, consolidates Qatar's leadership in this field, and supports the national economy within the framework of Qatar National Vision 2030.
For his part, Eng. Khalid Saif Al Khayareen, Projects Affairs Director at Ashghal, said the authority continues to implement its strategic plan to develop infrastructure services and public buildings in line with population growth, urban expansion, and the state's aspirations for the future.
He explained that the new awards include six key projects covering the construction and development of road networks, along with educational, health, and service buildings in coordination with relevant authorities in the country.
Eng. Ahmed Al Ahmad, Asset Affairs Director at Ashghal, noted that the operation and maintenance contracts will contribute to improving the management of road and drainage networks and ensuring the sustainability of infrastructure assets, ultimately enhancing the quality of services provided to citizens and residents. He added that the projects will be executed to the highest standards of quality and safety, using the latest technologies and equipment in operation and maintenance processes.
The contracts include infrastructure projects to develop road networks nationwide, as well as the operation and maintenance of strategic roads in northern and southern Qatar. They also cover the development and adoption of intelligent transportation systems (ITS).
Work is expected to commence in October 2025. The operation and maintenance period will extend for five years for all projects, except for the ITS project, which will run for three years.
The projects aim to manage road assets using innovative technologies, including an AI-based digital platform, self-driving vehicles for asset surveys, and laser systems to proactively detect and address road defects. Smart systems will also be adopted to monitor road conditions. These works contribute to Qatar National Vision 2030 by promoting sustainable infrastructure, improving efficiency, and extending the lifespan of road assets through innovative materials and technologies that enhance durability.
Regarding drainage networks, operation and maintenance works are scheduled to begin in Q1 of 2026. In the coming years, Ashghal seeks to expand its use of advanced technologies such as robots and drones equipped with CCTV cameras for inspections, as well as automation, digital twins, and predictive analytics to detect faults. Smart control systems and remote sensing technologies will also be deployed.
The Enterprise Asset Management System (EAMS) will be enhanced to set maintenance priorities based on risk, integrated with Building Information Modeling (BIM). These approaches will support environmental sustainability and climate change adaptation while improving the efficiency of drainage networks. Ashghal also places strong emphasis on developing Qatari talent through specialized training and knowledge-transfer programs.
These measures will improve the efficiency and capacity of drainage networks, ensure their continued reliable operation, and contribute to meeting sustainability and quality-of-life standards in Qatar.
As for building projects, four new awards include the construction of three new schools, upgrades to safety systems in 40 existing schools, refurbishment of the Psychiatric Hospital of Hamad Medical Corporation, and renovation of Al Zubara Horse Breeding Farm.
Meanwhile, road projects include the construction of link roads from Al Mazrooah to Al Attoriya and Bu-Thaila areas, totaling 22 km, which will support economic and agricultural activities, provide vital services to farms, and prepare the area for future urban development in line with the state's vision and national development plan.
In addition, the Al Karaana Road Development Project aims to provide an advanced road network in the Al Karaana area and implement integrated infrastructure. Works include a 6.5 km road network with traffic safety features, street lighting, parking facilities, landscaping, and treated wastewater and irrigation networks totaling 17.5 km. (QNA)