First phase Oman rail project likely 2014

Oman is moving steadily in building a number of projects and initiatives which will bring new economic diversification in Oman’s GDP. The developments will also enhance government partnership with the private sector and generate new job opportunities. Unveiling the projects and programmes for the year, Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al Futaisi, Minister of Transport and Communications pointed out that the railway project is on top of the agenda of the ministry’s plans for this year. The pre-qualification of the project contractors will commence soon and hopefully the first part of construction from Al Buraimi to Sohar will be awarded by the end of this year. Necessary arrangements will be made to maximise the in country and added value of the project. He pointed out that while some of the ongoing projects will be completed, new projects will be tendered and floated. Work is also under way to prepare the detailed designs of the master lay out for Sultan Qaboos Port and converted it for tourism purposes, as well as establishing a company that will develop it. Khasab Port development project, which comes in response to the Royal orders, is also under way. Shinas Port in the North Al Batinah Governorate will also be developed. The ministry will coordinate with the National Ferries Company to launch two ferries for the maritime route (Shannah-Masirah). As for the civil aviation sector, he pointed out that ministry would focus on benefiting from the completed packages at the airport projects. This may include the early operation of the domestic airports in Sohar, Duqm and Ras al Hadd, as well as temporary passenger terminals until the third package of these airports is over. He added that while there is a delay in completing the passenger terminal at Muscat International Airport, which required postponement of its opening, the ministry is looking to do everything possible to open the Phase I, which includes the runway, control tower, air movement control complex and building of the Public Authority for Civil Aviation. Plans are also underway to open Salalah Airport this year. Source: Travel Daily