New environmental regulations could be introduced across Salmabad by year-end to turn the busy area into a properly regulated industrial zone, pending Cabinet approval.
The proposal, spearheaded jointly by the Northern Municipal Council and Parliament, follows a surge in complaints over foul odours, unsafe chemical storage, excessive noise, illegal parking and workshops encroaching on to public roads.
A municipal inspection campaign began last Sunday, targeting violators improperly using streets, storing oils and hazardous substances in open areas and causing disturbances in nearby residential and commercial properties.
Once considered a purely industrial pocket, Salmabad has in recent years seen a surge in homes, shops and commercial outlets operating side by side with garages, construction yards and chemical warehouses – a situation councillors have described as a ‘ticking time-bomb’.
The new proposal is being pushed by area MP Hassan Ibrahim and area councillor Dr Mohsin Abdulla, who is also chairman of the council’s financial, administrative and legislative committee.
They say the time has come for a realistic, modern solution rather than relocating long-established businesses.
“The area has seen a sharp increase in residential development over the past decade, making it critical to address any environmental and safety hazards posed by industrial activities,” Mr Ibrahim said.
“There has been talk that garages, chemical warehouses and construction companies should be relocated to areas away from homes, but this would be unfeasible under the existing circumstances.
“Let’s be realistic and present a new approach with stricter regulations and viable modern solutions to the challenges.”
Under the plan, existing and new businesses will be required to instal high-tech filters, buffers and specialist drainage systems for hazardous liquids, oils and solvents.
New industries will face tougher environmental conditions before licences are granted, while existing operators will be given a time frame to comply with greener standards.
“Buffers, filters and clean-energy technology could solve current concerns and prevent potential disasters,” Mr Ibrahim added.
“This is not just about regulations, it’s about creating a safe and sustainable environment for everyone.”
Dr Abdulla said recent fire incidents involving vehicles, garages and warehouses had intensified fears about the risks posed by the current situation.
“Introducing environmentally-friendly rules wouldn’t just protect the atmosphere, workers and residents in Salmabad, but also ensure a greener environment for future generations,” he said.
“Companies will be obligated to manage waste responsibly, separate harmful materials and invest in clean-energy equipment. While this may require an initial investment, the long-term benefits for safety and health far outweigh the costs.”
The proposal also addresses long-standing issues of road congestion and improper parking caused by workshops using public roads as storage and workspaces.
“We are working to ensure residents and workers are safe in the interim through temporary measures, but long-term solutions must be implemented similar to those exercised in Dammam in the Eastern Province,” Dr Abdulla added.
He confirmed that both the council and Parliament are now in discussions with the Cabinet to review the action plan, which aims to change Salmabad’s negative image and turn it into a model, environmentally responsible industrial zone by the end of the year.
“For residents who have long complained about noise, fumes and hazards at their doorsteps, our move signals the start of what we hope will be a lasting clean-up of one of the Northern Governorate’s busiest districts,” said Dr Abdulla.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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