URGENT action is being mobilised after mounting concerns over hazardous mudflats at Nurana Coast, which have already led to multiple accidents and pose a serious risk to people, particularly children.
Northern Municipal Council chairman and area councillor Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie led a delegation of officials concerned on an inspection visit to the site yesterday.
This came after a horse was earlier this month rescued after it got stuck in the thick, swamp-like mud near the coast.
The rider involved reportedly escaped unharmed, managing to alert residents and authorities.
The rescue operation involved a forklift, with the incident prompting renewed outcry from the community and immediate attention from officials.
Yesterday’s delegation included representatives from multiple government bodies, including the Northern Governorate Police Directorate, the General Directorate of Civil Defence, the Supreme Council for the Environment, the Northern Governorate and the Northern Municipality.
“We fear that the next victim could be a child since the swamp is just metres away from a playground,” warned Dr Al Wedaie.
“Children could walk straight into these mudflats without knowing the risk. Once someone sinks, rescuing them is extremely difficult. That is why the valid fears expressed by residents must be addressed urgently.”
Residents of Jid Al Haj, a nearby village, have long complained about the coastal area’s unsafe terrain.
The mudflats, described as extremely soft and unstable, have already caused several accidents involving both people and animals. Fishermen and frequent visitors to the area have voiced their concerns for years, saying the threat is constant and growing.
“What happened to the horse is not an isolated incident; it is part of a recurring problem that has been reported to us many times,” Dr Al Wedaie emphasised.
Residents, especially those living close to the Nurana Coast, say they fear for their children.
“We have already raised this with the concerned ministries and will push harder for clear and practical solutions,” Dr Al Wedaie said.
“This is not a problem that can be solved with temporary fixes. We need an engineering and environmental assessment to determine the best way to eliminate or secure the hazardous areas.”
He suggested that immediate steps could include fencing off particularly dangerous sections, placing warning signs and conducting a technical study on possible land reclamation or soil treatment.
The council has pledged to present an urgent motion to the relevant authorities in hopes of fast-tracking a response.
“Our responsibility as a municipal council is to protect lives and ensure public safety,” Dr Al Wedaie stressed.
“We stand with the residents of Jid Al Haj and all visitors to Nurana Coast in demanding a comprehensive and long-term solution.”
The council plans to co-ordinate with the Works Ministry and the relevant environmental authorities to explore both technical and procedural remedies.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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