The government is committed to addressing long-standing environment problems in Tubli Bay, a top official has said.
Oil and Environment Minister Dr Mohammed Bin Daina revealed that work is underway to expand the wastewater treatment plant, increasing its capacity to 1,000 cubic metres per day, with completion expected by the end of this year.
Existing treatment stations are also being upgraded using the latest technologies, he added.
Responding to parliamentary questions by Strategic Thinking Bloc spokesman MP Khalid Bu Onk, Dr Bin Daina said the first step in resolving a problem is recognising its existence.
“We are fully aware that there is an environmental problem in Tubli Bay,” he said. “Addressing it requires honesty and responsibility – not ignoring it or denying it. The government is directly following this file and bears full responsibility.”
He explained that environmental deterioration in the bay was the result of cumulative factors spanning many years, adding that meaningful solutions require time, sustained effort and significant investment.
“I personally follow this issue, and the Cabinet receives periodic reports on marine environmental conditions and water quality in the bay, some on a monthly basis,” he said. “Our approach is strategic, based on clear plans and effective actions, not stopgap solutions.”
He outlined several infrastructure projects aimed at improving water circulation in Tubli Bay, including widening and deepening channels in key areas such as Ma’ameer, Shaikh Sabah Al Ahmed Highway, and Alba and Bapco. Some channels have been expanded to widths of up to 180 metres, following detailed technical studies, to enhance tidal flow.
“These projects have cost the state millions of dinars and were implemented with public health and long-term environmental interests in mind,” he said. Dr Bin Daina also pointed to encouraging environmental indicators, including the success of the clam-restocking project in Arad, which is being closely monitored.
“These initiatives aim to restore the marine ecosystem and strengthen Tubli Bay’s natural stock,” he added.
The minister, who is also Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing treatment upgrades by year-end and improving water quality discharged into Tubli Bay.
“These steps will support natural water movement and address existing environmental challenges,” he said. “We are determined to achieve results that positively impact both the environment and public health.”
Mr Bu Onk sought quick measures, claiming that residents near the bay ‘cannot even open their windows because of the foul odour’. He questioned how long public funds would continue to be spent without tangible results, citing government expenditure of BD138 million in 2017 and BD78m in 2024.
In a separate response to MP Mohammed Al Rifai’s question on fisheries regulation, Dr Bin Daina said that recent decisions in the marine sector had created 750 job opportunities for Bahrainis in the fishing profession, while also regularising the status of more than 500 unlicensed workers.
On the controversial ban on trawling, Dr Bin Daina said the practice had caused severe damage to marine habitats and fish stocks. He added that affected fishermen were compensated with payments ranging from BD26,000 to BD32,000, while those who transitioned to traditional fishing received BD4,000. “There is no shortage of fish in local markets,” he said. “Banning fishing during breeding seasons and stopping the catch of certain species are necessary steps to protect and grow marine wealth,” he added.
Mr Al Rifai, meanwhile, said fishermen face mounting challenges and called for clearer alternatives, particularly for shrimp fishing.
MPs also unanimously approved the Unified GCC Food and Agriculture Plant Genetics Law. The urgent legislation was referred by the government and has been sent to the Shura Council for review.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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