Santhosh Chandran
Doha
A footbridge on the E-Ring Road in Doha is provoking a great deal of interest among motorists and pedestrians ” the former for its eye-catching design and the latter for its utility and a sense of security.
Located between Al Thumama Intersection and Airport Street, the first-of-its-kind foot overbridge in Qatar is yet to open formally. However, it has already proved its utility for residents of the densely populated areas of Old Airport and Al Rawda.
The bridge has enhanced pedestrian safety significantly in the area and is a delight for morning joggers.
The reconstructed E Ring Road with additional lanes, pedestrian and cyclist pathways as well as flowerbeds and trees adorning it, is attracting a large number of joggers.
Even though the elevator of the footbridge is not yet operational, an increasing number of people feel tempted to use the bridge for their own safety and also to explore the structure that boasts of state-of-the-art facilities. With a length of 66 metres and width of four metres, the bridge aims at minimising accidents and providing the residents of Al Rawda access to commercial establishments and offices of Traffic department in Old Airport area.
Once the elevators become operational, the people with special needs will also be able to use the bridge. Attractive lighting, CCTV as well as fire detection and fire-fighting systems are the other features available.