Fishermen in Barbar are facing theft and hazardous waterways, calling for urgent action to safeguard their livelihoods and ensure safe access to the sea. With frequent theft of boats and equipment alongside dangerous conditions in the local waterways, local fishermen are demanding safety measures, including the installation of security cameras. They are also requesting the cleaning of the marine channel and improvement of access roads to the pier. The government’s acquisition of land near the jetty has been a long-standing appeal from the fishermen to ensure their safety and access to the sea.
For many residents of Barbar, fishing is their primary source of income. Requests for cleaning the marine channel have been ongoing for over a decade, as the channel has become blocked with mud, making navigation challenging and leading to accidents. Despite efforts to seek permission to initiate the work, obstacles such as the waterway being located on private land and high project costs have hindered progress. Plans for a fishing port in Barbar have been promised for nearly 25 years, but have yet to materialize, prompting calls for action from authorities.
A proposal to clean the waterway was submitted to the Northern Municipal Council in 2021 but has since stalled, leaving the channel filled with rocks and marine debris. Fishermen are unable to access the coast, putting their livelihoods at risk, highlighting the need for immediate action to restore the channel and ensure the safety of the fishermen. Establishing a fishermen’s port in the area has been emphasized by residents and local officials as a vital step to support Barbar’s economy, which relies heavily on fishing for income.
Ali Jawhar, a fisherman and resident of Barbar, urged His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa to prioritize the acquisition of land near the fishermen’s jetty and provide necessary support to the local fishermen. Northern Council Chairman Dr Shubbar Al Wadaei acknowledged the fishermen’s demands and the need for immediate action to address the blockage of the channel with mud and rocks for the safety of the fishermen. Despite efforts from the council, there has been a lack of action from responsible agencies, causing frustration among the local community.
In light of ongoing neglect and delays in addressing the concerns of fishermen in Barbar, there is a pressing need for urgent intervention from authorities to safeguard the livelihoods of those dependent on fishing. The establishment of a fishermen’s port and the cleaning of the marine channel are essential steps to ensure safe access to the sea and protect the assets of local fishermen. With the support of local officials, residents, and fishermen, it is crucial for responsible agencies to prioritize the demands of the community and take immediate action to address the hazardous conditions in the local waterways.
