A proposal to remove old water meters across Bahrain and replace them with smart devices has been unanimously approved by the Muharraq Municipal Council.
Councillor Dalal Al Meghawi, who spearheaded the move, claimed that it came in response to ‘widespread complaints of inaccurate billing and concerns over safety hazards posed by the outdated devices’.
Council members stressed the need for immediate action to prevent further inconvenience to residents.
However, the proposal faces a potential obstacle as the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities (Baca) has reportedly opposed the removal of certain old meters on the grounds that they formed part of the nation’s historic heritage.
Ms Al Meghawi alleged that several residents have been suffering from inflated water bills due to faulty readings from aging meters.
“People are being overcharged and this is unacceptable,” she said during the meeting held at the Muharraq Municipality headquarters in Busaiteen yesterday.
“The old meters have become unreliable, leading to disputes between consumers and the authorities.
“The only way to resolve this issue is by replacing them with smart meters that provide accurate readings and ensure transparency.”
She stressed the need to expedite the process to benefit residents.
“Introduction of smart meters is not just a convenience, but a necessity to ensure fairness and efficiency in water billing,” she said.
Council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar highlighted the risks posed by old meters, particularly those installed at an elevated level.
“Many people have tripped over these meters, especially those that are placed above ground, this is a serious hazard that must be addressed,” he said.
“We need a proper solution that prioritises both accuracy and public safety,” he added.
Council members also indicated that the removal of old meters could face delays due to opposition from Baca.
However, Mr Al Naar suggested that meters could be investigated and the ones in a relatively good condition and deemed safe could be preserved.
“If a few meters hold historical value and do not pose any issues, they can be preserved,” he added.
“But a majority of them will have to be phased out as we believe that they are outdated, unsafe and inaccurate.
“We need to strike a balance between heritage and modernisation.”
The Muharraq Municipal Council is now urging the Electricity and Water Authority (EWA) to move forward with the modernisation plan and shift to smart meters.
Councillors have stressed that improving the safety and accuracy of water meters ‘should take precedence over bureaucratic hurdles’.
The proposal has been referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak. He will forward it to Electricity and Water Affairs Minister Yasser Humaidan, who is politically responsible for the EWA, and Information Minister Dr Ramzan Al Nuaimi, who is politically responsible for Baca.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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