Qatar's capital, Doha, is developing fast. Due to a considerable increase in the population, car ownership and the development of new city districts such as Lusail and The Pearl, Doha Greater Area will experience serious traffic problems in the near future.
In particular, the current road connection between the New Doha International Airport and the West Bay Area through the Corniche Road and the “A” Ring Road will not be able to accommodate future traffic demand.
Various options for north-south link
COWI has conducted a comprehensive feasibility study for various options for a north-south traffic link and subsequent proposals for the preferred solutions.
The study included evaluation of a 5 km long tunnel under the city, a six km long bridge over Doha Bay, which will run traffic around the city itself, as well as establishment of a metro system.
An under-sea tunnel is the preferred solution
The study confirmed that there is a significant need for a link, and the solution recommended is a pure tunnel solution, constructed as an immersed tunnel.
The main tunnel will be about ten kilometer long, and will include a branch to link into the West Bay area midway. There will be a fully submerged Interchange.
The conclusion of the study is also that a Bay Crossing alone will not solve the traffic problems in Doha, and there will be a need to further strengthen the road network in Doha. A Metro system is already under development.
