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.
Shafeeq Alingal
Shafeeq Alingal is a Staff Reporter with Gulf Times. He has mainstream media experience of six years. Health, environment and wildlife are among his specialties.