Authorities are implementing a series of environmental and infrastructure measures to address water accumulation and mosquito infestations in Buhair Valley.
Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain revealed the measures in response to a proposal calling for a comprehensive solution to stagnant water in the area, which residents say has led to the spread of mosquitoes and insects.
“The government is taking all efforts to address water accumulation in Buhair Valley and to confront the spread of mosquitoes and insects in the area,” he said. “These steps aim to ensure a safe and sustainable environment that meets the aspirations of residents while protecting the natural diversity.”
Among the key measures is the construction of a rainwater storage pond as part of the first phase of the Buhair Valley development project. The pond, which has a diameter of around 200 metres, is designed to collect rainwater and groundwater from the valley. It is connected to a main rainwater drainage line leading from Wadi Al Buhair to Tubli Bay, helping regulate water flow and reduce stagnation.
Authorities have also been working to drain existing stagnant pools of water in the valley to reduce mosquito breeding sites.
Maintenance works are underway on drainage networks. These include servicing the rainwater drainage lines and outfalls connected to the storage pond, which will carry excess water to an outlet in Sanad.
Floating aerators have also been installed in certain locations to help circulate water and prevent stagnation.
Mr Al Buainain said these measures would help improve water movement and reduce the conditions that allow mosquitoes and insects to multiply.
In addition to infrastructure solutions, authorities have introduced several environmental and public health measures.
Waste removal campaigns have been launched to clear rubbish from the area, which the minister says can contribute to insect infestations by creating breeding environments. At the same time, pest control teams are spraying environmentally-friendly insecticides to combat mosquitoes and other insects.
Health authorities are also strengthening disease vector monitoring programmes to assess the effectiveness of control operations.
Community awareness campaigns are also being rolled out to help residents play a role in addressing the issue.
These initiatives aim to educate residents about preventing water accumulation around homes, managing household waste properly and protecting themselves from mosquito bites.
“The government is committed to mobilising all available resources to resolve the issue of water accumulation in Buhair Valley,” Mr Al Buainain said.
He added that authorities were working closely with multiple ministries and agencies to ensure a co-ordinated approach to the problem.
“The government appreciates the interest shown by Parliament in this matter and reaffirms its commitment to continued co-operation with MPs for the benefit of the kingdom and its residents,” he said.
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