Snorkels assist in Qatar rail project

10 January 2014

Snorkel boom working at the Lusail Light Rail Transit (LRT) in Qatar

Q-FAB, Snorkel’s distributor in Qatar, has supplied lifts for the construction of a $32 billion transport infrastructure project.

The Light Rail Transit (LRT) project aims to create a tram network of four lines covering more than 30 km, with 37 passenger stations. The highly efficient train network will have low energy consumption, supporting Qatar’s vision for continuous development and ensuring the project is environmentally friendly.

Q-FAB supplied a range of Snorkel aerial work platforms to contractors working on the construction of the project, which is overseen by the Qatar Rail Company.

One of the booms (see picture), the UpRight SB66 telescopic boom lift, now sold as the Snorkel TB66JRT made the national newspaper Gulf Times, Qatar’s best-selling English language newspaper.

Q-FAB also supplied the contractors with UpRight X32s and Pop-Up lifts for fitting out the stations.

The LRT project consists of a fleet of 34 trains and 37 stations, 24 of which are at ground level; 10 are underground; one at bridge level; and two connecting two high-rise buildings. It will link into the Doha Metro light rail system under construction in the capital of Qatar and some of its neighbouring municipalities. Ultimately both will connect to the larger Qatar Rail network, providing long-distance high speed rail across Qatar. In total the State is investing $32bn in rail infrastructure.

Health and safety is a priority during the LRT construction phase; all workers from the top management to the unskilled labourers have had to undergo safety and technical training before being allowed onto the sites; and use of aerial lifts is encouraged.

Roshan Mathew, senior manager - sales at Q-FAB said, “We are delighted to be involved in creating a new rail infrastructure that will transform Qatar.

“Given the strong focus on safety and productivity on this project, there are significant opportunities in this project for use of aerial lifts and we have had very good feedback so far from our customers.”