BAHRAINIS who have been affected by the rain must be compensated “quickly”, demanded an MP.
The call by Ebrahim Al Nefaei comes as the country struggles with floods in some areas caused by the heavy rains over the past 48 hours resulting in significant damage to public property.
The parliamentarian demanded that the Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry address the crisis by helping people who had lost their homes and cars in the downpour.
The GDN reported yesterday that dozens of tankers and pumps had been deployed across the country after heavy rains and thunderstorms caused flooding and traffic chaos in recent days.
“Many citizens have complained about the poor infrastructure in some areas, and the situation must be addressed quickly,” Mr Al Nefaei told the GDN.
“At this stage, competent authorities must carry out the duties without delay; this could take several days, and any delay will only complicate matters.
“I’ve received complaints from several residents about their homes flooding and cars being damaged in the rain, while there are also complaints about accumulated rainwater in many areas.
“Municipal revenues that are not included in the general budget must be used to deal with sewage problems, and there must be a better emergency plan than what we saw yesterday, and those affected must be compensated.”
The ministry’s ‘Rain Emergency Team’ is, meanwhile, working round the clock to clear waterlogged areas, particularly around schools, hospitals, parks, mosques, and other public places.
“The priority should be for the low-income group, which bears a lot of responsibilities, difficulties, and obligations,” Mr Al Nefaei added.
“The rain has worsened their problems, and it is difficult for them to manage the crisis without proper government support.
“This scenario repeats itself every year, and water-logging must be taken seriously – we should abandon traditional methods of water suction using tanks in favour of more practical and modern solutions.”
Meanwhile, the Capital Municipality yesterday began draining rainwater from the Manama Central Market.
“The municipality’s emergency team, which includes health and hygiene inspectors, is working round the clock along with the competent authorities to remove rainwater and clearing open sewers,” said a municipality statement.
A’ali, Karranah, Saar, Hajiyat and Buhair were among the hardest hit areas, with a new road leading to Al Lawzi housing in Hamad Town receiving the most rainwater.
Unsettled weather with scattered rain showers turning thunderous at times is forecast for Bahrain, with temperatures expected to drop to as low as 13C.
Today’s forecast calls for strong winds and rough seas, according to the meteorological directorate.
Due to heavy rains and possible flooding, the Civil Defence has advised people in low-lying areas to move valuables to higher floors, while people have been urged to turn off power supplies to their homes for fear of sparking a fire.
Traffic officials urged motorists to exercise caution when driving on flooded roads, particularly in the dark and during heavy rain.
raji@gdn.com.bh
&uuid=(email))