An urgent appeal for social responsibility has been issued by the Northern Municipal Council following acts of vandalism and damage at Barbar Park, one of the region’s most prominent public spaces.
Chairman Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie warned that irresponsible behaviour in recreational areas threatens public property, undermines community achievements and places additional burdens on state funds.
“Barbar Park should be a model of responsible use, not an example of neglect or destruction,” said Dr Al Wedaie. “What we are seeing in some areas is a clear departure from the values that preserve public assets.”
He stressed that public parks must be enjoyed without leaving behind damage, waste or signs of misuse.
“There is a major difference between destruction that occurs by God’s will and destruction caused by human behaviour,” he said. “Natural events may leave no trace, but irresponsible actions leave scars that affect everyone.”
The municipal chief stated that Barbar Park has become a concerning example of vandalism, marked by damaged facilities, littering, and the misuse of recreational spaces, despite ongoing maintenance efforts by municipal teams.
“Plants and trees are being deliberately torn down, and rides destroyed. People are littering and failing to clean up afterwards. Even restrooms are vandalised,” he said.
“These parks are created for families, children and the wider community. When facilities are vandalised, it is not the municipality alone that pays the price – it is society as a whole.”
Dr Al Wedaie emphasised that social responsibility is not merely a legal obligation but a moral and cultural value rooted in education, ethics and family upbringing. “It’s a culture shaped by individuals who understand the importance of personal responsibility in preserving public rights,” he said.
“Such individuals are characterised by high educational values and strong ethical principles that guide their behaviour in public places.”
He added that recreational activities in parks and natural sites should reflect respect for shared spaces, noting that reckless behaviour sends the wrong message to younger generations.
“The family plays a central role in building conscious and rational behaviour,” he explained. “Children learn how to treat public property by observing their parents. Awareness begins at home.”
Dr Al Wedaie called for co-operation between municipal authorities, community groups and residents to protect landmarks and prevent further damage.
“We need a collective effort – municipalities, families, schools and civil society – to reinforce a culture that values public property,” he said.
“Preserving achievements is as important as creating them. Public parks are a shared trust. If we truly believe in serving our community, then leaving no trace of harm should be our guiding principle.”
The public park in Duraz was reopened to the public with a new look following a comprehensive maintenance and development programme carried out by the Northern Municipality in September last year, as reported in the GDN.
For years, the park had also suffered repeated vandalism and neglect. The upgrades included replacing the asphalt playground surface with artificial grass, installing modern solar-powered lighting, placing surveillance cameras to enhance safety, and adding sail-shaped shade structures over children’s play areas.
The vandalisation of Barbar Park will be further highlighted during an upcoming council session this month.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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