Pavements may finally be laid in a residential neighbourhood in Arad where families have been waiting for more than 25 years for work to take place.
A motion requesting immediate action on improving road surfaces in Block 241 has been unanimously approved by Muharraq Municipal Council as councillors highlighted the misery of their constituents.
It comes in response to mounting public complaints over non-existent and deteriorating infrastructure and follows a formal request submitted by Arad Councillor Ahmed Al Meghawi highlighting the serious health, safety and environmental consequences of the area being neglected.
“An entire neighbourhood has been patiently waiting two decades for basic infrastructure,” said Mr Al Meghawi. “People moved into this community more than 25 years ago, and while many streets have been paved, one particular area had somehow been left behind. The residents deserve answers, and more importantly, they deserve action.”
Mr Al Meghawi
Residents of Block 241 have long reported that the unpaved road segment creates dust pollution, waterlogging and perilous potholes, making it difficult for both pedestrians and vehicles to pass safely. In the rainy season, stagnant water collects, turning into a breeding ground for insects and posing public health risks.
“The road conditions are not just inconvenient – they are hazardous,” added Mr Al Meghawi. “Families are dealing with dust-related health issues, mosquito infestations and car damage from potholes. Even ambulances and emergency vehicles have difficulty reaching homes in this area.”
Road 4130, where House No 428 is located, was highlighted as a prime example of the issue at hand, or rather, underfoot.
The council’s services and public utilities committee reviewed the request and supported it unanimously, citing both public health concerns and fair service delivery.
“It is unacceptable that one part of a well-established residential block has gone without proper paving for this long,” said committee chairman Abdulqader Al Sayed.
The latest plea from residents came in a letter to the council last month and subsequent field inspections ‘fully endorsed’ the complaints. “It’s time to close this gap in services,” he added.
The committee’s justification for immediate action includes:
- Health risks: Dust and stagnant water increase the risk of respiratory diseases and insect-borne illnesses.
- Repair bills: Residents face mounting costs due to vehicle damage from road conditions.
- Access concerns: Poor road conditions limit accessibility for pedestrians and emergency services.
- Neighbourhood image: Unpaved roads detract from the visual appeal and public perception of municipal service standards.
The council’s internal memorandum and final committee vote show unanimous support for action. Councillors stressed the importance of ensuring that all infrastructure projects are executed without delay.
“We will continue to follow up with the relevant authorities until we see real progress on the ground,” said Mr Al Sayed. “Our role is to stand by the residents and ensure their voices are heard.”
The motion now awaits further administrative steps and co-ordination with the Works Ministry to be officially implemented.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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