New Measures Introduced In Kuwait's Largest Road Maintenance Initiative To Ensure Quality

The Minister of Public Works, Dr. Noura Al-Mashaan, has officially signed contracts for 18 significant road maintenance projects, marking a crucial milestone in enhancing Kuwait’s road infrastructure. The projects, valued at approximately 383 million dinars, represent the largest initiative of its kind in the country’s history and will address long-standing road issues across all six governorates, including key routes like Salmi, Abdali, and the Sixth and Seventh Ring Roads.

Largest Road Maintenance Initiative in Kuwait’s History

The contracts aim to tackle extensive maintenance work on expressways and internal roads, offering comprehensive solutions to persistent issues that have plagued the nation's road network. This initiative follows public concerns over road quality, particularly after heavy rains in 2018 led to increased cases of flying gravel and potholes, causing numerous accidents.

Introducing New Technical Standards and Quality Measures

To ensure high standards, the Ministry has implemented new technical specifications and stringent measures in the selection and testing of engineers. Key updates include:

• Enhanced Engineer Selection: Improved criteria for selecting and evaluating engineers involved in the projects.
• Updated Machinery Requirements: Companies must now use modern machinery that meets specific standards to maintain optimal paving quality.
• Neutral Laboratory Testing: Neutral laboratories will oversee compliance with global quality standards, allowing for the accurate detection of technical errors and issues in asphalt mixes.

These reforms are designed to ensure that the road maintenance work adheres to international best practices, enhancing both quality and durability.

Involvement of International and Regional Companies

In a move to bring diverse expertise to the projects, international companies, including a prominent Turkish firm and a leading Qatari company recognized for their contributions to road development, will participate alongside local companies. This collaboration is expected to raise the quality and effectiveness of road maintenance efforts across Kuwait.

10-Year Maintenance Guarantee for Long-Term Solutions

The Ministry has guaranteed maintenance for a period of 10 years from the completion of these contracts, ensuring that the roads remain in top condition. This long-term commitment reflects a proactive approach to addressing issues that have affected road safety and user experience.

Formation of a High-Level Committee for Efficient Project Implementation

To facilitate smooth execution, Dr. Al-Mashaan has formed a high-level committee comprising representatives from key state sectors, including:

• Ministry of Finance
• Public Authority for Roads and Transportation (PART)
• Legal Advice and Legislation Department

This committee will streamline the processes involved in contract implementation and will work to keep the public informed about traffic updates, road instructions, and temporary closures through improved communication channels.

New Measures to Prevent Road Damage

In a bid to prevent road damage, the Ministry is introducing a "heavy truck weighing system" on expressways and internal roads. This system aims to regulate the weight of trucks, minimizing the damage caused by overloaded vehicles. Violations will be closely monitored, and necessary corrective actions will be enforced.

Regional Collaboration for Enhanced Road Infrastructure

The Ministry of Public Works is also engaging in technical agreements with neighboring countries such as Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the UAE. These collaborations aim to leverage regional expertise in road paving, bringing additional value to Kuwait’s road maintenance initiatives.

A Comprehensive Approach to Road Maintenance and Safety

The signing of these contracts marks a radical reform in Kuwait’s road infrastructure maintenance. By addressing long-standing issues, such as flying gravel and potholes, the Ministry is committed to ensuring safety and efficiency for all road users, while meeting the expectations of Kuwait’s citizens.