The cabinet has been urged to come up with a clear policy on the ownership and maintenance of roads within private developments such as Diyar Al Muharraq, Dilmunia and Amwaj Islands.
The Muharraq Municipal Council has called on the government to clarify whether the roads fall under the jurisdiction of the Works Ministry or remain the responsibility of private developers.
Council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar yesterday raised concerns about the accessibility of roads within these developments, emphasising that private ownership should not result in restrictions for the general public.
“Private developments often market themselves as open hubs for shopping, dining and recreation,” Mr Al Naar said during the council meeting at the Muharraq Municipality in Busaiteen.
“However, the concept of a gated community must not translate into inconvenience for visitors, with security questioning people every time they enter to access public services or outlets.”
He also sought to know who would bear the responsibility for maintenance, repairs and other infrastructural issues that might arise over time.
“What happens if a road is damaged? Is it the Works Ministry’s responsibility to repair it, or does the burden fall on the developer? Such ambiguities must be addressed immediately,” added Mr Al Naar.
“The issue has been a point of contention with many residents and visitors raising concerns about unclear policies regarding public access and road maintenance within private projects.”
Council vice-chairman Saleh Buhazaa, who is the councillor for all private mix developments, echoed Mr Al Naar’s concerns.
He stressed the need for a structured approach to managing roads in such communities to ensure fairness for all parties.
“We are not against private developments or the investments they bring to Bahrain,” said Mr Buhazaa.
“However, we must protect public interests. Roads should be registered as public property, with the developers taking responsibility for their maintenance.”
He added that a lack of clarity over ownership could create confusion and lead to disputes between residents, developers and government authorities. “These areas are often frequented by people from across the country and the infrastructure must reflect that reality. It is unacceptable for roads to remain in a legal grey area,” said Mr Buhazaa.
He stressed the need for a clear policy in which the government retains ownership of all roads, while developers are mandated to fund and oversee their maintenance, repairs and other necessary improvements.
“This is a win-win solution,” Mr Buhazaa claimed.
“The roads will remain public, allowing unrestricted access for everyone, while developers shoulder bear the cost of upkeep as part of their responsibility towards the community they profit from,” he added.
“Private developments such as Diyar Al Muharraq, Dilmunia and Amwaj Islands are marketed as lifestyle destinations that cater to both residents and visitors, making it essential to treat the roads within these areas as public assets.
“Whether someone is a resident, a shopper, or just passing through the roads, they should not feel restricted or inconvenienced.”
He urged the Cabinet to step in and ensure that these developments are inclusive and not exclusionary.
The council’s demand for clarity on ownership comes amid ongoing discussions about urban development and the integration of private projects into Bahrain’s broader infrastructure network.
“Bahrain is growing, and with it, our urban landscape is evolving. Private developments play a significant role in that growth, but we must ensure they align with the country’s long-term vision for inclusivity and accessibility,” said Mr Buhazaa.
“We hope the Cabinet will issue a decisive ruling that establishes a clear framework for road ownership and maintenance in private developments, ensuring that public interests are safeguarded.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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