The lump sum design and engineering contract calls for the construction of a reinforced concrete-framed pumping station, and power and substation buildings, complete with the installation of related electrical and mechanical equipment. Civil works will include the construction of concrete-armoured breakwaters, dredging of the main intake channel, shoreline protection, and external works, including retaining walls, roads and drainage.

The intake system will supply the major industrial projects that are being developed in Sohar with 334,000 cubic metres an hour of water in the first phase. A second-phase expansion will be required at a later stage to serve the aluminium smelter, and power and desalination plant projects proposed for Sohar. The work is expected to take 28 months to complete with final commissioning scheduled for late 2004 (Construction, MEED Special Report, 11:1:02, page 34).