Qatar Rail’s prompt and decisive reaction to the illegal economic blockade imposed on Qatar since June 5, 2017 helped the company “successfully mitigate” its impact and overcome challenges, an official said.

“The unprecedented challenges that Qatar Rail faced in 2017 have served only as a catalyst for adaptability and change. The resilience and the will to succeed in the face of adversity was evident in every aspect of our operations.

“We have introduced a number of initiatives on the project management level, which propelled us not only to succeed but indeed excel and deliver our best performance to date,” said engineer Abdulla al-Subaie, the managing director and CEO of Qatar Rail.

Al-Subaie was among the key officials who accompanied HE the Prime Minister and Interior Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani’s inspection of the Doha Metro project’s Economic Zone station yesterday.

He said a task force was established to address issues related to the blockade and that Qatar Rail “worked closely” with its supply chain and all parties involved to overcome the immediate impact of the blockade and to identify and avoid risks.

“We are proud of all the efforts of our staff and partners who worked tirelessly to overcome these unexpected challenges. With renewed resolve, we look forward to accomplishing even more in 2018, working to turn the vision of His Highness the Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani into a reality,” al-Subaie said.

He said Qatar Rail supported its supply chain by agreeing to simplified procedures for customs clearance for shipments. Deliveries are being expedited and red tape reduced for the increased amount of sea-freight arriving in Doha, he noted.

Qatar Rail secured shipping capacity on these key routes by entering into direct charters. Approximately 82,000 tonnes of building components were delivered to Qatar between June 5, 2017 and November 30, 2017. The project also saw increased use of airfreight for critical deliveries, which was essential for the success of the pilot stations.

In addition, a number of manufacturing and assembly activities were moved to Qatar. These included the fabrication of glass-fibre ceiling panels, assembly of control panels, and manufacturing of structural steel, among others. This has reduced pressure on port, eliminated shipping risks, and helped developed the local industry.

“Prompt and far-sighted action by Qatar Rail means that the impact of the blockade was absorbed. These challenges could have negative impact. Instead they have spurred greater efforts and resulted in increased self-sufficiency and resilience – as evidenced by Qatar Rail’s achievements in the last year and especially in the seven months since the blockade began. This was achieved with the support of Qatar Rail’s highly-capable project partners, including leading international and local contractors and consultants,” al-Subaie said.

Related Story