A MAJOR clean-up drive has been launched, with the authorities issuing orders to remove illegal signages and old billboards that have turned into an eyesore in various parts of the country.
Scores of advertisements in the Capital Governorate – which includes Manama, Juffair and parts of Sitra – have also been listed for violations including hindering traffic and failing to renew licence.
Officials from the Capital Municipality have placed warning notices on a variety of commercial displays ranging from signboards of major hotels, eateries and supermarkets to billboards and signages of some of the country’s most prestigious residential apartments.
The decisions have been taken based on recommendations of a special committee that reviews advertising applications.
Capital Trustees Board public relations and media head Dr Maha Al Shehab told the GDN that the move was aimed at beautifying the country, which she said was important when promoting it for investments and tourism.
“It’s also a matter of following rules and regulations,” Dr Al Shehab explained.
“Signboards can be set up only after seeking approvals from the municipality, which determines the location and size of display as well as the colour, types and fonts.
“This is to ensure a positive ‘visual impression’ of the country, which is important as we try to promote the kingdom as a tourism destination and open it to investors.”
Dr Al Shehab
The GDN reported earlier this year that the Capital Trustees Board had organised a massive clean-up drive to remove tonnes of waste, including abandoned boats and cars, wooden and reinforced concrete cabins and illegal street advertisements that were impeding people’s movement and traffic.
“Licences for billboards or signages have a time limit,” she explained.
“Displaying them after expiry is a violation that calls for fine. Some signages are temporarily approved as part of projects and should be removed once it is completed – but sometimes the party responsible fails to pull it down, which is illegal.
“Private property signboards kept on public property is also a gross violation of the law.
“People should keep in mind that rules are in place to ensure the safety of the public, pedestrians and drivers, as these signages must not obstruct pedestrians’ view, distract drivers or pose any security threat.”
The GDN reported last year that 84 locations across all four governorates had been designated for large hoardings on the roadside. The new regulation also stipulated that only one non-commercial hoarding would be allowed per location.
Meanwhile, the GDN learnt that Capital Municipality officials have sent letters to traders urging them to rectify violations within a specific period, failing which they will be referred to the Public Prosecution.
“Some of the advertisements have expired,” said a municipality representative. “There is a committee which will look into other violations and action will be taken according to its recommendations.”
raji@gdn.com.bh
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