As part of its efforts to develop the strategy for operation and maintenance of drainage networks across Qatar, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has achieved a total savings of 23% of the costs of operation and maintenance of drainage networks. This is, according to an Ashghal statement, just one year after awarding the Catchment Zone Framework Contract.
 

Engineer Ahmed Sharif al-Ahmad
The framework contracts are part of the comprehensive development programme called Catchment Zone Framework (CZF) Contract (Takamul) that divides the drainage works in Qatar into three zones, north, south and west.
Through this programme, Ashghal has contracted with three partners to implement operation and maintenance works of the state’s drainage assets. The three main partners are assigned with zone specific work orders for implementing maintenance, replacement and rehabilitation works.
Engineer Ahmed Sharif al-Ahmad, director of Assets Affairs at Ashghal, said implementing the new framework contract, and the results achieved within a year of implementation.
“Through this contract, Ashghal aims to achieve its strategic vision, while shifting its corporate capabilities from project implementation to assets management. The contract also helps Ashghal moving forward towards achieving excellence, and reaching the ranks of world's leading institutions in this field, in preparation for hosting FIFA 2022 World Cup Qatar and beyond,” he said.
"Through CZF contract, we use the latest tools and technologies, such as modern asset management systems and many high-tech equipment and pioneering solutions that contribute towards improving the operational efficiency of drainage networks and pumping stations, in addition to saving maintenance costs and enhancing health and safety measures at work sites. These measures have also significantly contributed to enhancing the speed of responding to customers by 98%,” he added.
 

Engineer Khaled al-Obaidly

Engineer Khaled al-Obaidly, Drainage Networks Operation and Maintenance manager, said Ashghal gives customers top priority in setting up preventive maintenance plans for drainage networks.
“Ashghal’s keenness on reducing costs and raising the level of quality service provided to the people of Qatar has necessitated in implementing the unified Catchment Zone Framework Contract that grants each contractor a contract binding with all operations and maintenance works related to drainage networks in the assigned area. This is a qualitative leap in dealing with drainage assets in the country within an integrated system,” he added.
"The scope of work for drainage operation and maintenance includes all the pumping stations, wastewater treatment plants, associated sewage networks, ground and surface water drainage networks and treated water networks in every area, including existing and new works managed by Ashghal,” he explained.
The three partners involved in the unified CZF contract are Suez International SAS responsible for operation and maintenance of drainage networks and assets in the North of Qatar; Metito (Overseas) Qatar WLL, in charge of southern area of Qatar and the Joint Venture of Mace Qatar and Aguas De Valencia responsible for the West of Qatar. Besides, a number of local subcontractors are also involved with these main partners in the operation and maintenance of drainage assets in the state.
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