Doha: Director of Projects Management and Development Department at the Ministry of Municipality, Abdulaziz Al Rumaihi, has announced the launch of a national project aimed at rehabilitating public beaches and enhancing their service infrastructure. This initiative, undertaken in collaboration with the Public Works Authority (Ashghal), targets the development of 18 beaches across the country. Al Rumaihi emphasized that the upcoming period will see substantial beach developments and the inauguration of new sites as per the approved schedule, alongside partnerships with municipalities and the private sector.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Rumaihi detailed that the project's initial phase involved the enhancement of eight primary beaches, including those at Simaisma, Al Wakra, Sealine, Al Farkia, Al Ghariyah, Safa Al Touq, and Al Kharaij. This effort is part of a comprehensive strategy to elevate living standards and boost domestic tourism.
Al Rumaihi highlighted the Ministry's summer season readiness, which relies on ongoing coordination between operations, maintenance departments, and municipalities to ensure beach preparedness and service continuity. Measures are in place to uphold beach quality during peak times, with regular monitoring of facilities' conditions.
He further outlined that beach development and facility upgrades are ongoing, driven by needs, visitor feedback, and field team assessments. Al Wakra Municipality, for instance, has seen significant improvements this year to enhance visitor experiences and provide a well-rounded environment.
The upgrades feature the installation of 200 wooden umbrellas, including accessible ones for individuals with special needs, the establishment of 300 covered urban seating areas for families and individuals, shaded play areas for children with safe sandy floors, designated spaces for eateries and food carts, and enhanced beach entrances and walkways with tree planting for environmental and visual enhancement.
Al Rumaihi confirmed that the Ministry, through its Public Relations Department, is rolling out promotional campaigns to highlight the services and facilities at public beaches, especially family-oriented ones. This includes media content showcasing events like the monthly activities at Beach 974 and promoting responsible beach use.
To ensure visitor safety during the summer's high temperatures, the Ministry is increasing the number of umbrellas in seating areas, creating shaded recreational zones for children, and offering first aid services at major beaches. Al Rumaihi urged adherence to the Ministry of Health's guidelines on appropriate visiting times, sunscreen use, and avoiding sun exposure during peak hours.
The Ministry places a high priority on beach cleanliness, particularly during peak seasons. Cleaning teams are deployed around the clock, and specialized companies are contracted to maintain vital amenities like restrooms and prayer rooms, with field supervision teams on standby to address issues promptly.
In conclusion, Al Rumaihi reiterated the Ministry's dedication to ongoing development projects aimed at boosting beach efficiency and appeal, including adding green spaces and solar-powered lighting to promote environmental sustainability and cater to diverse societal needs.