A PROPOSAL to install filters on rainwater drainage holes across the country has been rejected.
Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Minister Essam Khalaf said the devices would block the holes leading to more flooding during rains.
However, the Southern Municipal Council has called for a rethink, asserting that filters would separate mosquito eggs, dust, splinters and shreds from the water, leaving it safe for possible use in future.
“Having filters, mainly geotextile fabric, would clog rainwater drainage holes and lead to flooding during the season,” Mr Khalaf told councillors.
“There has to be quick flow and filters tend to obstruct it.
“Drainage systems in the country are efficient as in the event of a water logging, roads are cleaned in record time.
“The proposal is not feasible, both practically and economically.”
Council services and public utilities committee chairman Abdulla Abdullatif, however, urged the ministry to explore more innovative options available across the world.
“We need feedback on every type of filter available and we have never asked for a particular one,” said Mr Abdullatif.
“We should learn from the UK, France or India, which have advanced rainwater drainage systems.
“The water could be treated as a resource and not a hazard and clean water, when collected, can be used for agricultural purposes.”
He said the council was not seeking sophisticated technologies which would cost the government money.
“We have rainwater drainage systems and we are trying to improve their efficiency and don’t believe that filters are expensive,” said Mr Abdullatif.
“Filters are being used in swimming pools, at homes, water fountains and in many places and they have proven beneficial as they filter mosquito eggs, dust, splinters and shreds from the water.”
Meanwhile, Parliament public utilities and environment affairs committee chairman Khalid Bu Onk said the government should focus on providing better sewage drainage networks. “Rains are not a regular recurrence in Bahrain and investing in filters, in my opinion, is a waste of time,” he said.
“Money could be directed towards better sewage networks.
“Unfortunately, large quantities of sewage and other lubricants are dumped into the system as most of them have no lids or cover.”
Northern Municipal Council member and environmental expert Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie said the issue requires extensive research before any conclusion is reached.
“We have two opposing views that don’t have any scientific backup and to give an expert opinion on the matter, a professional study is necessary.”
mohammed@gdn.com.bh
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