The Muharraq Municipal Council recently held a meeting to address the ongoing issue of lorries and vehicles parked in unauthorised locations within the region. Representatives from various government agencies participated in the discussion, including the Ministry of Transport and Telecommunications, General Directorate of Traffic and Licensing, Labour Market Regulatory Authority, Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and Muharraq Municipality. One of the key concerns raised during the meeting was the parking of large lorries in residential areas, often on pavements. Some companies claimed a lack of designated parking spaces as a reason for non-compliance, while others cited the distance between parking areas and drivers. However, the council firmly rejected these justifications, emphasizing the need to adhere to licensing requirements.
In addition to addressing the issue of lorries, the council also discussed the problem of taxis, including official taxis, app-based ride-hailing services, and unlicensed drivers offering transportation services on a per-trip or monthly contract basis. Council members highlighted the importance of reviewing existing laws and regulations, particularly regarding the monitoring of food delivery companies to ensure compliance. They also called for a mechanism to address the problem of non-Bahraini vehicles parked in residential areas for extended periods, further emphasizing the need for adherence to regulations and licensing requirements in the transportation sector.
Another important topic of discussion during the meeting was the issue of abandoned and dilapidated houses within the municipality. Khalid Al Qalaf, the Director General of Muharraq Municipality, explained that the municipality works closely with the Muharraq Governorate Police Directorate to identify abandoned houses and temporarily seal them to prevent their use for illegal activities. The municipality’s Inspection and Cleaning Department monitors dilapidated properties, prepares technical reports on their structural condition, and notifies owners of the need to obtain necessary permits for repairs or demolition. In cases where abandoned houses pose an imminent threat, the municipality takes immediate action by issuing permits for repairs or demolition.
The council’s Finance and Legal Committee recommended allocating a budget for a project to address dilapidated houses in the 2025-2026 budget. This project aims to assist low-income Bahraini families and ensure their access to decent housing. By allocating financial resources to tackle the issue of dilapidated houses, the council aims to improve living conditions for residents and enhance the overall quality of housing in the region. Additionally, the council’s efforts to work with relevant government agencies on this issue demonstrate a commitment to addressing community needs and promoting sustainable development within the municipality.
Overall, the meeting held by the Muharraq Municipal Council highlighted the importance of addressing key issues such as improper parking, transportation regulations, and dilapidated houses within the region. By working collaboratively with various government agencies and developing specific projects to tackle these challenges, the council aims to enhance the overall quality of life for residents and promote responsible development within the municipality. Through ongoing efforts to enforce regulations, allocate resources, and engage with the community, the council demonstrates a commitment to addressing pressing issues and creating positive change within the region.
