Artificial lakes set up to hold excess rainwater

Ashghal has set up several artificial lakes to contain the excess rainwater at project sites and on important highways such as the Shamal Road.

Arabic daily Al Sharq quoted an Ashghal official stating the increase in a number of pumps, ponds and artificial lakes, which help contain large quantities of water that can create waterlogging.

The Ashghal source also said the department deployed tanks and pumps near schools for the safety of students, parents and staff.

“Ashghal provided more than 260 mobile pumps and dozens of mechanized vehicles to quickly deal with the clogging on the main highways and major tunnels,” he told the newspaper.

Ashghal has identified the most vulnerable points based on past years’ reports of rain.  Until the completion of the permanent drainage network, the interim system will be in place to absorb rainwater.

In addition, Ashghal has put up electronic signage to educate motorists about weather and road conditions.

None of the tunnels and major highways, such as Al Khor Road, Al Majd Road, Al Rayyan Road and others witnessed the clogging in yesterday’s rain, he stressed.

“So far, 141 kilometres of rainwater drainage networks have been completed in various places,” he said.

He also stressed Ashghal is well-prepared for the season, especially on new project sites.

“We are in coordination with all contractors in order to monitor the status of these sites and provide solutions to prevent the rainwater clogging,” he said.