Mott MacDonald the Project Management Consultants and the HBK-PORR Joint Venture Contractor, welcomed 20 members of the CIHT Qatar group to the Public Works Authority Mesaimeer Pumping Station and Outfall project, located to the south of Hamad International Airport. The design team of Mott MacDonald showcased various issues related to the overall design, construction and operation through 2D and 3D plans of this unique project. Chris Casidsid presented on health and safety, Panos Verros provided an overview of the project, Arivinda Brahim discussed marine aspects, Sekar Govindasamy presented on the mechanical and electrical aspects; and Kamal Sharma spoke of the structural and tunnel aspects of the project. The CIHT Qatar group then had a tour of the pumping station area to view the ongoing excavation works and tunnel boring activities.

The total cost of the project is QAR 920 million, which includes construction of the pumping station comprising 10 pumps and a 10-kilometer tunnel with auxiliary facilities. The New Austrian Tunneling Method (NATM) is being used for tunnelling works and the total capacity of the pump is 19.7 cubic meters per second. The project is expected to be completed in 2021.

To discharge surface and storm water from Mesaimeer area to the sea, all environmental aspects, including climate change issues, future expansion etc. are taken into consideration to make the project sustainable in every aspect, in addition to Variable Frequency Drivers (VFD) that is used to reduce the usage of electric energy. Dirt, grease and other specific materials will be treated which will minimize the impact of marine environment.

The CIHT Qatar group learned of the main challenges faced by the project during design and construction stages. The group also had an opportunity to learn about the deep excavation, specific design considerations and environmental management. At the end of the site visit, CIHT Qatar thanked Mott MacDonald for their time, support and knowledge sharing. 

CIHT Qatar is sponsored by AECOM, BG&E, DCE, EGIS, FUGRO, Muhel, PAF, SEERO, TMS and WSP.