A call has gone out to increase police patrols along King Hamad Highway, with MPs warning that unauthorised street races and reckless driving were putting lives at risk.
Legislators Lulwa Al Romaihi, Dr Muneer Suroor and Bader Al Tamimi have submitted a proposal appealing to the authorities to restore order on the vital artery and take firm measures to reduce traffic accidents, while safeguarding public and private property.
Parliament’s foreign affairs, defence and national security committee, chaired by MP Hassan Bukhammas, has unanimously recommended approving the proposal, describing it as ‘a timely and necessary step to ensure safety on one of the kingdom’s busiest roads’.
“King Hamad Highway is a vital artery connecting several major areas of Bahrain,” Mr Bukhammas said.
“It has unfortunately witnessed an increase in reckless driving and illegal street races that put lives at risk. Intensifying police patrols will act as a strong deterrent and reinforce public confidence in road safety.”
Mr Al Tamimi
The committee’s recommendation follows a meeting with Interior Ministry officials, who reaffirmed that the General Directorate of Traffic continues to deploy patrols and monitor vehicles through security cameras along the highway.
Officials also clarified that while the Traffic Directorate is responsible for enforcement, the development of alternative routes falls under the jurisdiction of the Works Ministry. They added that all heavy trucks are required to keep to the right lane, with violations monitored through cameras and field inspections.
Ms Al Romaihi stressed that the initiative responds to growing public concerns over speeding and late-night racing that have endangered motorists and residents alike.
“This is not merely a traffic issue, it’s a matter of public safety,” she said.
“Citizens and families living near King Hamad Highway have expressed fears over reckless driving and late-night street racing. By maintaining a stronger police presence at all hours, we can save lives, prevent accidents, and restore discipline on our roads.”
Ms Al Romaihi
Ms Al Romaihi added that the proposal supports the Interior Ministry’s ongoing efforts to modernise traffic monitoring and enforcement using smart technologies.
“The ministry has been proactive in enhancing surveillance systems and using digital monitoring tools,” she noted.
“This proposal complements those efforts by ensuring continuous, visible patrols that reassure the public and deter violators.”
It will now be tabled for a vote in Parliament’s upcoming session on Tuesday.
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