Gas cylinder distribution trucks have now been officially barred from parking inside residential neighbourhoods in Isa Town, following sustained pressure from residents and action led by the Southern Municipal Council.
The move comes a year after Isa Town councillor Abdulla Darraj first raised the alarm over the dangers posed by trucks loaded with compressed gas cylinders being parked on narrow streets, close to homes and schools.
Under the new measures, the trucks are no longer permitted to enter or park in residential areas. Only empty ones will be allowed to stop in designated spaces located away from main neighbourhoods. In addition, ‘No Parking’ signs have been installed along school walls, and in previously misused open areas, to prevent both loaded and unloaded trucks from using these spots – even at night.
The action follows mounting fears that the situation could lead to a catastrophic accident if left unaddressed. Mr Darraj said the development marks a major relief for residents who had been living with daily anxiety.
Mr Darraj
“For months, we saw these trucks parked beside homes and near schools, carrying dozens of gas cylinders. The risk was real and frightening,” he said. “Today, we are seeing a clear response to those concerns. These trucks are no longer allowed to endanger residential areas.”
He noted that vehicles had previously been parked near Isa Town Intermediate School for Girls, triggering alarm among parents. “I personally conducted field visits and documented trucks in poor condition stationed on residential roads. This was never acceptable,” Mr Darraj said.
“This decision shows that residents’ voices have been heard and acted upon.”
The councillor had repeatedly warned that a single gas leak or spark could lead to devastating consequences, especially in older neighbourhoods where some buildings are not considered to be structurally resilient.
He had cited a deadly gas explosion earlier this year in Arad as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with improper handling and storage of gas cylinders.
“We were not exaggerating. We were speaking from real precedent,” he said. “What has been implemented now is exactly what we were calling for – relocation, regulation and enforcement.”
Southern Municipal Council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif described the step as a necessary corrective measure to protect communities.
Mr Abdullatif
“This is a very important development for public safety,” he said. “The government has responded positively to the council’s concerns and to residents’ fears. Preventing these trucks from parking inside neighbourhoods removes a serious and unnecessary risk.”
Mr Abdullatif added that the installation of no-parking signs around schools and open spaces sends a strong message that such practices will no longer be tolerated.
“These areas were being misused, particularly at night. Now there are clear restrictions in place and enforcement is expected to follow.”
He stressed that the council will continue to monitor implementation to ensure compliance.
“Our role does not stop at raising the issue. We will follow up to ensure this decision is respected on the ground.”
For many residents, the absence of gas cylinder trucks from their streets is already noticeable – and reassuring.
What was once a daily source of worry has now been replaced by visible regulation, marking a significant step towards making Isa Town’s residential areas safer for families and schoolchildren alike, officials and residents say.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
&uuid=(email))