LEGISLATORS have called for a ban on delivery motorcycles on Bahrain’s main roads, citing growing concerns over traffic accidents and public safety.
The proposal, submitted by five MPs led by Bader Al Tamimi, seeks to restrict riders from major highways and key arterial routes.
However, Parliament’s Foreign Affairs, Defence and National Security Committee has recommended rejecting the proposal, warning that such a move could worsen congestion and disrupt traffic flow.
Committee chairman Hassan Bukhammas said the proposal, while well-intentioned, is not practical given Bahrain’s road network and traffic patterns.
“Banning delivery motorcycles from main roads would create wider traffic problems, increase congestion on secondary roads and ultimately have a negative impact on overall traffic efficiency,” he said.
He explained that access to many residential and commercial areas is only possible through main roads, making it unrealistic to prohibit delivery riders from using them.
The Interior Ministry also cautioned that such a ban could lead to delivery riders switching to cars, increasing the number of vehicles on the road and adding further pressure to already busy routes.
“The road network in Bahrain is interconnected,” Mr Bukhammas said. “Any restriction imposed on one category of road users must be assessed carefully to avoid unintended consequences elsewhere.”
Mr Al Tamimi said the initiative was driven by public concern over road safety and the rising number of violations involving delivery motorcycles.
“Our objective was to reduce traffic accidents and protect both delivery riders and other road users,” Mr Al Tamimi said.
“We wanted to open a serious discussion on how to regulate this rapidly growing sector and ensure safer practices on the roads.”
He stressed that the proposal was never intended to disrupt traffic, but to prompt stronger oversight and enforcement.
“There must be continued efforts to address reckless driving, ensure compliance with traffic laws and protect lives.”
The committee noted that the desired objectives of the proposal can be better achieved through stricter enforcement of existing traffic laws, enhanced monitoring and awareness campaigns, rather than imposing blanket bans.
It also highlighted that delivery services have become an essential part of daily life and the national economy, particularly in densely populated areas, making it vital to balance safety concerns with practical mobility needs.
Mr Bukhammas said the committee’s recommendation reflects a careful balance between public safety and functional traffic planning.
“Legislation must be realistic and workable,” he said. “In this case, the evidence shows that rejection is the most responsible decision in the public interest.”
MPs will, however, debate the proposal
and vote on it during the Parliament session tomorrow.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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