Abu Dhabi, Jan 28, 2006 (WAM) - As part of its ongoing strategyto step up privatization of infrastructure services, the Governmentof Abu Dhabi announced plans to invite proposals by private investorsfor the operation and management of municipal solid waste treatmentand disposal in the Emirate.
The project's total value is estimated at approximately AED500 million and it is envisioned to be awarded for a 10 yearterm, according to a press release issued today.
It will be implemented with the objective of enhancing efficiencyin terms of facility utilization based on international environmentstandards and regulations, providing market access for recyclablematerials such as metals, glass, and plastics and benefitingfrom the experience and capabilities of the private sector.This major step to privatize the solid waste sector in Abu Dhabiadds to the Emirate's impressive track record in privatizingpublic services, following the successful privatization of itswater & electricity sector. It also stems from the Public-PrivatePartnerships which is being aggressively pursued by the Government.
'The Government of Abu Dhabi views privatization as a vitalengine for the distribution of wealth and for streamlining itsinfrastructure to become one of the best in the world. In addition,the private sector in the UAE is well positioned to grasp theopportunities created through the privatization program,' saidJuma Aljunaibi, undersecretary of Abu Dhabi Municipalitiesand Agriculture.
He said that the project committee is currently preparing Requestfor Proposals (RFP) for the project which will be sent to interestedinvestors starting from next week.
'Several investors, from within the country and abroad, haveshown strong interest in the project. They will be asked to expresstheir interest in writing ahead of the pre-qualification process,'he added.
The contracts for the operation and management of municipalsolid waste treatment and disposal activities will involve continuoustransfer and disposal of municipal solid waste, constructionof new facilities and their operation together with some existingfacilities according to international standards.
The existing landfill site, compost plant and transfer stationin Mussafah Industrial City will be closed down to mitigate environmentalimpact. They will be replaced by state-of-the-art transfer stations,transfer equipment and facilities for mechanical treatment inAl Mafraq.
New landfills and composting facilities will be set up in AlDhafra to ensure efficient and durable services.
Solid waste collection services are already being outsourcedby the Abu Dhabi Municipality to private operators.
