Qatar is pushing ahead the Doha metro project to complete its first phase on time in 2019 before launching the second phase scheduled for completion in 2026, according to media reports on Wednesday.
"The second phase of this strategic project is scheduled to be completed in 2026. The project involves four lines running to a length of around 354 kilometers and 93 stations linking the residential and commercial parts, inside and outside of Doha", said Abdulla Abdul Aziz Al Subai, Managing Director and Chairman of the Qatar Rail Company (QRC) Executive Committee.
The first stage includes construction of 37 train stations, while the second stage will focus on building 56 stations, he was quoted by the Qatari Arabic daily Al Arab, as saying.
The second phase involves building 152 kilometers (km) of rail lines, which includes 47 kilometers underground, 29 kilometers at the surface and 76 kilometers elevated, said the official adding that it is expected to be complete by 2026.
Al Subai said Qatar has already earmarked a 'very large' budget for the rail venture without providing the figures.
However, other rail officials have admitted that contracts around USD 8.8 billion (QAR 32 billion) had already been awarded to international contractors and that more deals would be offered during 2014-2015.
© Zawya 2014
