The president of the Public Works Ministry (Ashghal) Nasser al-Mawlawi has been replaced, according to a spokesperson from the ministry.

It is understood that Nasser al-Mawlawi has been replaced by Abdullah al-Attiyah, who has been appointed as the interim head of Ashghal.

The spokesperson also told MEED that the head of infrastructure and head of project spending have also been replaced.

It is unclear why the changes have been made although Ashghal has recently been criticised for widespread flooding across Doha following rainfall in November.

The flooding in several roads in Qatar occurred despite efforts by Ashghal to mobilise a rain preparedness strategy. The plan was launched in October in anticipation of the wasmi season, or the two month-period from November to January where the state expects increased rainfall. The plan included the maintenance of Qatar’s 45,000 manholes and numerous tunnel pumping stations, according to a local media report.

In November 2015, heavy rains caused flooding at Doha’s Hamad International airport and blocked several roads and closed schools and malls.

The 2022 Fifa World Cup will take place between 21 November and 18 December 2022. Qatar will be under heavy pressure to ensure that its road and other infrastructure will be able to withstand rainfall without flooding during this period.

Ashghal has recently invited an interest from contractors for the nationwide maintenance and rehabilitation of its roads and streets.