The world's longest fixed link becomes a reality when Qatar and Bahrain in the Middle East become connected in 5 years' time. The 45-km long connection will link the West Coast of Qatar near the Zubarah fortress with the East Coast of Bahrain south of its capital Manamah. The link is expected to consist of a number of bridges combined with roads constructed on embankments and will be a natural extension of the King Fahd Causeway that connects Bahrain and Saudi Arabia, thus linking the entire region.
COWI A/S with DHI Water & Environment as one of the subcontractors has been selected as consultant for the preparation phase of the study. COWI has made DHI responsible for the environmental studies which among other things includes comprehensive studies of the water exchange between the Gulf and the Bay of Salwa. The potential blocking of the water exchange as a result of resistance by bridge piers and blocking by road embankments is a major environmental issue in the region. Another major issue is the local environment around the huge coral reef Fasht El Azm, which occupy more than two thirds of the way between Qatar and Bahrain. Locally, this reef is called "The Mother of Fish" indicating its importance for the marine ecosystem.
For further information please contact Project Manager Anders Jensen (anj@dhi.dk)