The importance of strictly implementing road pavement Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures in Qatar has been the key topic at the inaugural day of the 4th Middle East Bitumen/Asphalt Conference (MEB 2013), currently being held under the patronage of the Public Works Authority ‘Ashghal’.
Delivering the keynote speech at the opening ceremony of the two-day conference, Eng. Jalal Yousef Salhi, Director of Ashghal’s Infrastructure Affairs, said: “Parallel to the huge investments and efforts being made to build an advanced sustainable road networks in Qatar, safety and quality assurance remain Ashghal’s top priority. Ashghal is committed to adopting the world’s best construction practices and standards for delivering its nationwide infrastructure programmes”, Salhi added.
Ashghal has identified the need for an increased level of service with regards to road pavement Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC) procedures. Highlighting research and development activities as critical to the construction of durable and safe road pavements, Salhi said high quality and innovative techniques should be maintained throughout the road construction process.
He has also encouraged participants to explore new and creative ideas for the use of smart design and materials for the construction of roads that are friendly to both the road users and the environment.
Ashghal will be leading the session on Road Authorities’ Views on Bitumen Quality and Problems on Wednesday 8th May 2013. MEB is being held under the theme “Uncovering New Growth Opportunities in Bitumen”, and it has attracted key players and decision makers in the bitumen and asphalt market who have gathered to exchange experiences and insights and discuss challenges associated with the fast developing bitumen market in the Middle East and African region.