As part of its plan to develop and implement sustainable drainage infrastructure throughout the country, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), will set up a sewage treatment plant project for Al-Wakrah and Al-Wukair catchment areas.

The plant is expected to start operations by June 2024, it was announced on Tuesday. Described as the first of its kind, the public-private partnership (PPP) model project will be implemented by Ashghal with the help and participation of private sector.

“The project is aimed at engaging the private sector in implementing Qatar’s development projects. It also ensures knowledge sharing between government and private sectors,” said Ashghal president Dr Saad bin Ahmad al-Muhannadi.

He was addressing a road show, organised by Ashghal for detailing the project for members of the Technical Committee for the Encouragement and Participation of the Private Sector in Economic Development Projects, officers from ministries and governmental institutions, developers, investors, contractors, operators, lenders and consultants from inside and outside Qatar.

The sewage treatment plant with an initial capacity of 150,000 cubic metres a day will treat waste water from various localities in Al- Wakrah and Al Wukair. The plant, according to Ashghal officers, will meet international standards in terms of machines and functions. The project features a Terminal Pump Station (TPS) with an Odour Control Facility (OCF), sludge treatment units and Treated Sewage Effluent (TSE) management units.

While addressing the event, Drainage Networks Projects Department manager Khalid al-Khayareen said that the project will be developed through a design, build, finance, operate, maintain and transfer PPP.

The project is scheduled to be completed within four years once the construction works start. Design, construction and landscaping works will be carried by private contractors while government will monitor works.

As per the plan, the private sector partner will operate and maintain the plant for 25 years, following which the maintenance and operation will be transferred to Ashghal using the same high-tech and operational experience.

By implementing the project, Ashghal is looking to support the Qatar National Vision 2030. The project will protect Qatar’s environment and ensure sustainable practices and quality of life amidst the rapid growth of the country and its population.