GWC, one of the largest logistics services providers in the region, has successfully transported two giant pandas - Thuraya and Suhail - to Panda House in Al Khor.
The pandas have been gifted by China to Qatar as a token of friendship and to celebrate Qatar hosting the FIFA World Cup, which begins on November 20.
GWC was responsible for the ground logistics and delivery once they arrived in Doha. This included Customs clearance and transport from Hamad International Airport (HIA) to Panda House in Al Khor.
The pandas were transported in two closed temperature-controlled trucks, with the temperature set at 5-10C.
“GWC’s expertise in transporting precious and endangered species was tested and successfully passed test runs from the airport to Panda House, Al Khor, to check if the temperature can be maintained as per the above conditions.
“Transporting such endangered species requires a high level of due diligence and attention to detail,” the company said.
GWC also conducted a site survey at Panda House, Al Khor, to check the location and safety of the place where the pandas would be offloaded. An extra truck was with the contingent to deal with any emergency situation.
The company works closely and regularly with the Qatari Ministry of Municipality’s Veterinary Affairs Department to ensure that all processes comply with the highest standards of biosecurity at all times.
GWC worked closely with Qatar Airport Services, General Authority of Customs, Hamad International Airport, Ministry of Interior and Qatar Airways along with the Ministry of Municipality representative to discuss and plan the scope and to facilitate this operation.
The pandas have been gifted by China to Qatar as a token of friendship and to celebrate Qatar hosting the FIFA World Cup, which begins on November 20.
GWC was responsible for the ground logistics and delivery once they arrived in Doha. This included Customs clearance and transport from Hamad International Airport (HIA) to Panda House in Al Khor.
The pandas were transported in two closed temperature-controlled trucks, with the temperature set at 5-10C.
“GWC’s expertise in transporting precious and endangered species was tested and successfully passed test runs from the airport to Panda House, Al Khor, to check if the temperature can be maintained as per the above conditions.
“Transporting such endangered species requires a high level of due diligence and attention to detail,” the company said.
GWC also conducted a site survey at Panda House, Al Khor, to check the location and safety of the place where the pandas would be offloaded. An extra truck was with the contingent to deal with any emergency situation.
The company works closely and regularly with the Qatari Ministry of Municipality’s Veterinary Affairs Department to ensure that all processes comply with the highest standards of biosecurity at all times.
GWC worked closely with Qatar Airport Services, General Authority of Customs, Hamad International Airport, Ministry of Interior and Qatar Airways along with the Ministry of Municipality representative to discuss and plan the scope and to facilitate this operation.