Qatar Rail Signs New Agreements Expanding Its Network

Doha, October 04 (QNA) - Qatar Railways Company and Kinki Sharyo Co. announced that it signed an agreement to procure 35 additional trains for the Doha Metro project, making the total number of trains serving the project 110. The additional trains will serve to increase the capacity of the metro system, especially when Qatar hosts the FIFA World Cup 2022, which is expected to attract over a million visitors during the tournament. The trains will also serve the future expansion of the Doha Metro lines, which Qatar Rail intends to carry out after the implementation of Phase 1 of the metro project. A joint cooperation agreement was also signed with Mowasalat to provide transport services for metro passengers through their taxi services "Karwa". Under this agreement, special discounts will be offered to metro passengers who book a taxi to take them from and to Doha Metro stations. The signing ceremony was attended by HE Minister of Transport and Communications Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, a number of officials from the transport sector, from the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy, and representatives from The Kinki Sharyo Co. On this occasion, HE the Minister said that "the Doha Metro project is one of the most important pillars of the comprehensive transport plan that we seek to achieve. This step will enhance the metro networks capacity to transport a large number of individuals, which will in turn support the public transport network, especially when Qatar hosts the FIFA World Cup 2022, during which there will be high demand on the public transport systems." For his part, Secretary General of the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy Hassan Al Thawadi said that "Qatar Rails projects will undoubtedly contribute to the provision of an exceptional experience for fans and visitors during the FIFA World Cup 2022. This project will not only facilitate their transport between stadiums, places of residence and touristic sites, but it will also provide them world-class services that will enrich their overall experience during this mega event. Furthermore, this project is considered a crucial pillar that contributes to economic development in the state of Qatar, to meet the community's needs, achieve long-term economic diversity and move towards accomplishing Qatar National Vision 2030." Meanwhile Qatar Rails Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Eng. Abdulla Abdulaziz Al Subaie said that: "One of the most important goals of the Doha Metro is to provide a rapid transport network with widespread coverage between cities, especially when Qatar hosts the FIFA World Cup 2022. The increase in the number of trains serving the Doha Metro project will undoubtedly boost the networks capacity and decrease time spent between trips moreover, providing a comprehensive and seamless transport experience for visitors and crowds during this mega event. In addition, this strategic move will contribute to the achievement of the projects long-term goals represented in the expansion of the current lines to reach farther areas." Karwa Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Khalid Nasser Al Hail said that "this MOU signing between the two major stakeholders Doha Metro & Mowasalat-Karwa, seals the bonding and relationship to deliver together integrated transport services for the State of Qatar. This is a first major step in accomplishing our principals and MOTCs vision of providing integrated sustainable transport solutions to every citizen, visitors & guests. With this, we are confident of giving an "Enhanced Public Transport Customer Experience." Regarding the latest project updates, Qatar Rail recently announced that the progress of Doha Metro Phase 1 Program now stands at approximately 90%. Furthermore, civil works have been completed at all stations. It is also worth noting that MEP and Architectural works are progressing at all 37 stations. (QNA)