MODERN children’s rides and slides are being installed in public parks, coasts, gardens and walkways across the country, according to a minister.
Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak told the Muharraq Municipal Council, in writing, that advanced playgrounds that meet children’s needs and improve their cognitive development and social interactions were on the way.
He said 45 rides were installed in 2021-2022 within Muharraq Governorate parks, while plans are underway to install 10 more in the area.
“New rides and slides have been installed in eight public parks in the governorate that are either new or have been revamped recently,” said Mr Al Mubarak.
“Ten more exquisite slides are on the way in five parks and we remain open to more suggestions on improving the recreational facilities,” he added.
“The new modernised yet traditional slides will be installed in gardens, walkways and coastal areas as well.”
Meanwhile, council vice-chairman Saleh Buhazaa said he was awaiting work on two new public parks in his area, hoping they would have attractive facilities that appeal to the young.
“With the rapid development of society and the significant improvement in people’s quality of lives, children’s play areas demand more attention and innovative designs are essential,” he said.
“We need to break the ‘sandpit and slide’ model and come up with unique concepts that will aid in children’s physical and mental development.
“We hope it happens in the two parks being planned in my area covering Galali, Amwaj Islands, Dilmunia and Diyar Al Muharraq.
“The ministry may want to consider creating a large playground that can be used in any weather and by both children and parents. The facilities should include rest areas and play areas for social and cognitive development at the same time.”
The council’s services and public utilities committee chairman Ahmed Al Meghawi claimed that most parks in the governorate were empty and no ‘modern rides and slides’ have yet been installed.
“We have been asking not just for modern rides and slides, but also fitness equipment for children, teenagers and adults that are hi-tech,” he said.
“Forty-five rides and slides have been installed, but where? The locations mentioned in the minister’s reply are mostly empty or have been vandalised and need maintenance.
“Children love discovery, challenges, sports and adventure. They need to have fun in nature, playing, climbing, jumping, and engaging in games like hide and seek.”
Mr Al Meghawi explained that modernisation has led to the development of sprawling cities where direct human interactions outdoors have become limited.
“As long as children are not closed in an airtight environment without sunlight, even the poor nature can make children happy,” he added.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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