Doha:As cities worldwide address rapid urbanization and housing needs, the focus is on creating urban environments that prioritize people and quality of life. This year’s World Cities Day, observed on October 31 under the theme “Regenerating the City Adequate Housing for All,” underscores the importance of urban regeneration, adequate housing access, and the development of inclusive, safe, and sustainable cities.
According to Qatar News Agency, in Qatar, urban development and infrastructure expansion are central to the country’s broader development strategy. The State continues to advance strategic projects to upgrade existing residential areas, develop new communities, expand road networks, and enhance public services and facilities, aligning with Qatar National Vision 2030 and its sustainable development objectives.
Eng. Khalid Saif Al Khayareen, Director of Projects Affairs at the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), emphasized the role of infrastructure projects in reshaping residential neighborhoods. These projects aim to improve connectivity and create safer, more livable communities. Ashghal’s initiatives include developing new residential areas and upgrading existing neighborhoods, focusing on integrated infrastructure to meet urban expansion and residents’ needs.
The infrastructure works cover local roads, stormwater drainage networks, street lighting, parking facilities, and dedicated routes for pedestrians and cyclists. These improvements aim to enhance navigation and connectivity to main roads and essential facilities, including government buildings.
Al Khayareen highlighted that the projects reflect this year’s World Cities Day message, emphasizing the integration of housing, infrastructure, and essential services in sustainable community development. He stressed the importance of well-planned residential areas offering infrastructure and services to support residents’ daily lives and improve their quality of life.
Ashghal is currently executing road and infrastructure projects nationwide, targeting residential plots and upgrading neighborhoods such as West Umm Salal, Al Ebb, Al Thumama, and others. These projects aim to expand and upgrade road networks, improve connections to major roads, and install essential infrastructure, enhancing traffic safety and public service efficiency.
Sustainability is a key component of Ashghal’s project delivery, with environmental considerations integrated from design to implementation. The authority employs innovative solutions, advanced technologies, and best practices to conserve resources, reduce waste and emissions, and minimize environmental impact, in line with Qatar National Vision 2030.
Over 75 percent of materials used in Ashghal’s projects are locally sourced, reducing import dependence and supporting national industries. The authority also promotes the reuse and recycling of construction materials and harnesses solar energy for lighting at project sites.
Water management is another focus, with expanded rainwater drainage and collection networks and the development of pumping stations. Water extracted during construction is repurposed, reducing waste and optimizing resource use.
Ashghal’s projects incorporate pedestrian walkways, cycling routes, pavements, and green spaces, improving access to public facilities and connecting neighborhoods with surrounding services. These measures aim to create safer, more accessible, and sustainable communities, encouraging healthier lifestyles and enhancing quality of life.
Looking forward, Ashghal plans to expand its infrastructure program significantly, with over 30 projects scheduled for tendering over the next five years. These projects will serve new residential land allocated to citizens, covering approximately 33,000 plots.
The next phase will emphasize coordination with government bodies and service providers to align infrastructure investment with broader development and urban planning priorities. Ashghal aims to expand the use of smart digital systems and emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, to improve project planning, execution, and efficiency.
These efforts form part of Qatar’s broader development agenda under Qatar National Vision 2030, focusing on building resilient, sustainable infrastructure, protecting the environment, and raising public service standards.