As part of a series of projects aimed at enhancing the road network in Qatar, the Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has announced a project to convert the Al Markhiya and Dahl Al Hamam roundabouts into signal-controlled intersections.
Construction work on the project is expected to commence in mid-May and completion is estimated by October this year.
The project is located in a strategic part of Doha, connecting several main roads such as Al Markhiya, Arab League, Jassim Bin Hamad and Khalifa streets. Given its vital location, work on this project will be carried out while keeping two lanes open to traffic in each direction, throughout the construction period and temporary access will be provided to businesses and residences.
The project will involve converting Dahl Al Hamam roundabout into a signal-controlled intersection and providing three lanes in each direction on Al Markhiya and Arab League streets.
Covering a stretch of 400m from the centre of the intersection, the development works will further enhance traffic flow by providing three additional lanes turning left and a dedicated side lane to turn right at each signal. In addition, pedestrian crossings will be created to ensure the safety of road users.
Converting Al Markhiya roundabout into a signal-controlled intersection will involve four lanes in each direction on Khalifa Street, in addition to three lanes to turn left and one lane to turn right. Widening of roads will be done by taking parts of the median to provide enough space for the new signals and their utilities.
The project will involve works in various areas. The first area stretches over 600m from Al Markhiya roundabout towards TV roundabout and the second stretches over 1,000m from Al Markhiya roundabout towards Al Gharafa roundabout. The third stretches over 300m from Al Markhiya roundabout onto Jassim Bin Hamad Street and the fourth area stretches over 300m from Al Markhiya roundabout onto Arab League Street.The authority has revealed that as part of this project, a stormwater drainage network will be installed and some existing utilities will be enhanced and diverted. This is in addition to landscaping works and installation of street lighting and traffic signals along the new intersections.
Further, Ashghal has said road signs will be installed to advice motorists about alternative routes and it has also advised all road users to respect traffic rules and abide by speed limits at all times to ensure their safety and that of others.
Work on the two roundabouts will be implemented round-the-clock in order to finish the project on schedule. The Public Works Authority recently completed the conversion of a number of roundabouts on Al Corniche Street into signal-controlled intersections. The converted roundabouts include those at the Museum of Islamic Art, Al Diwan, Grand Hamad, Al Meena, National Theatre, Wadi Al Sail and Post Office.
© Gulf Times 2014
