Residents of a Bahraini village long described as being ‘locked in’, with only one official entrance and exit point, could finally see a breakthrough after planners confirmed the potential for two access routes.
The development has raised hopes among families in Zallaq’s Block 1056, where residents have for years complained about traffic bottlenecks, delays during emergencies and difficulties entering and leaving the area due to a single access point.
In response to a request submitted by local representatives, the Urban Planning and Development Authority (UPDA) confirmed that studies have identified the necessary rights-of-way for two proposed road connections under the area’s approved master plan.
The first proposal would link Road 5663 with Road 5607, while the second would connect Road 5621 with Road 5638 near the Zallaq Cemetery Mosque.
UPDA chief executive Ahmed Al Khayat said the authority had completed its planning review and found that both proposed connections could be accommodated within the existing master plan.
“Our studies confirmed that the required rights-of-way are available for both access routes,” he said.
“The authority will continue co-ordinating with the relevant government entities to complete the necessary procedures and facilitate the next stages of the project. Improving connectivity while ensuring compliance with approved planning standards remains a key priority.”
Mr Al Khayat added that the authority would work with the concerned bodies to reserve the required corridors and support the process before implementation is assessed by the Works Ministry from an engineering and design perspective.
Mr Al Zoubi
The news has been warmly welcomed by area councillor Hamad Al Zoubi, who has been pushing for additional access roads after receiving repeated complaints from residents.
“This is a very important step for the people of Zallaq,” he said. “For many years, residents of this block have felt isolated because the area effectively depends on a single entrance and exit. Any accident, roadworks or congestion can immediately affect hundreds of families trying to reach their homes, workplaces or schools.”
Mr Al Zoubi said the issue went beyond convenience and touched directly on public safety.
“When emergency vehicles, ambulances or Civil Defence teams need to enter an area, every minute counts,” he added.
“Providing alternative access routes will improve traffic flow, strengthen emergency response capabilities and significantly enhance the quality of life for residents.”
Locals say the village’s rapid growth over recent years has placed increasing pressure on existing infrastructure, making additional entry and exit points a necessity rather than a luxury.
Residents also hope the new connections will reduce travel times, ease congestion during peak periods and improve access to nearby facilities and services.
The matter will now move to the Works Ministry, which has been asked to study the feasibility of implementing the project from an engineering and technical standpoint.
Should the project receive final approvals and funding, Zallaq’s residents may finally see an end to one of their longest-running infrastructure concerns.
For many families, the prospect of opening two new gateways into the community represents more than just a road project – it is the promise of safer journeys, smoother access and greater peace of mind.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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