Doha, Qatar, 21 January 2009: Qatar's roads and traffic are set to benefit from the world's latest technology as the UK's Transport Research Laboratory announces that it will establish a centre at Qatar Science & Technology Park.
The centre will develop innovative processes and technologies in road transport that will aid Qatar's rapid physical growth. TRL also aims to train and create high-value positions for members of the local transport industry.
TRL is one of the world's largest transport research companies; and works with governments around the world to develop local infrastructure. It focuses on the design of road and traffic networks, while also providing expertise on road safety and traffic management.
TRL Country Manager Khaled Hassan said "Our initial projects will focus on road technology and transport asset management. In the long-term we hope to use our position at QSTP to collaborate with Qatar's universities and to pass on our expertise to local people."
He added "One of TRL's aims in Qatar will be to help to reduce road accidents in the country, of which there were 10,000 recorded last year alone."
QSTP attracts companies from around the world to develop and commercialise their technology in Qatar. As part of the Qatar Foundation it promotes collaborative research between its member companies and the neighbouring universities at Education City.
QSTP Executive Chairman Dr. Tidu Maini said "QSTP seeks to facilitate R&D integral to the development of Qatar, its economy and the knowledge of its inhabitants. TRL will bring the expertise to fulfil this vision and will prove to be of great importance to Qatar's rapidly expanding infrastructure and transport."