Al Ain prepares to expand its sewer system

AL AIN // The city is embarking on a two-year, Dh1.5 billion project to upgrade and expand its Eastern Region's sewage networks, which are more than 20 years old.

The project includes networks in Al Ain and surrounding areas, and was ordered by Abu Dhabi Sewage Services Company to meet the demands of the current population, as well as the demands of a projected expansion of the region under the Al Ain 2030 plan.

Gulf Contractors has been awarded a Dh750 million contract to complete phase one, while Nael and Bin Harmal Hydroexport signed on at Dh761m for phase two. The entire project is to be completed within 24 months.

The project will help modernise Al Ain's sewage networks, which have been operating above capacity, in order to meet the projected needs of Al Ain and the surrounding area, said Abdullah al Ahbabi, the chairman of Abu Dhabi Sewage Services Company.

"The expansions will ensure that the environment is protected from air, surface water and groundwater pollution," he said.

Two new sewage treatment centres will serve existing areas, the expanded network and future developments. A central facility in Al Saad, now more than 90 per cent complete, has been designed to process 80,000 cubic metres of waste water a day.

ealghalib@thenational.ae