TV Roundabout to turn signalised intersection

THE Public Works Authority (Ashghal) has started converting TV Roundabout into a signalised intersection and is expected to complete the exercise before the start of the new academic year, Qatar Tribune reported.

The move is part of Ashghal's efforts to regulate traffic in Qatar by converting roundabouts into signal-controlled intersections in the vital areas of the country.

Ashghal plans to carry out most traffic diversions and closures during the summer break in order to minimise inconveniences to the people.

The conversion of the TV Roundabout will be followed by work on other phases of the project which include widening 300m of each of the streets in order to have four main lanes and three lanes to turn left. This is in addition to pedestrians' crossings that will be added on each side of the intersection. 

The streets that will be widened are Khalifa Street, Abdul Aziz Bin Jasim Street and Ahmad Bin Ali Street while two roundabouts on Abdul Aziz Bin Jasim Street will be converted to signal-controlled intersections.

The traffic signal at the intersection of Ahmad Bin Ali with Al Jazira Al Arabiya streets will be developed to facilitate access to the TV buildings and the nearby residential areas. Works will include developing the service roads in the area.

After the project completion, the road capacity for main traffic will increase by 25 percent to 30 percent and by 100 percent for those turning left or making a U-turn.

The waiting time at the intersection will be reduced by about 50 percent as a result of connecting the traffic signal at the intersection with other signals on the surrounding streets.