A high-stakes operation to relocate nearly 100 sprawling scrapyards from southern Bahrain has entered its final phase, with authorities racing against an extended deadline as the land is cleared for major future oil and gas exploration projects.
Officials confirmed yesterday that scrapyard operators in Al Mazra’a, Askar, have now been granted until July 31 to complete their transfer to a newly-developed industrial site in Hafeera, Block 959, following directives issued by Deputy Premier Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa.
Speaking during the final meeting of the current term of the Southern Municipal Council, Southern Municipality director-general Isa Al Buainain said the relocation operation was being carried out under intense supervision due to the nature of materials stored in the yards.
Mr Al Buainain
“This is not a standard transfer process,” Mr Al Buainain said. “We’re overseeing every stage carefully from the current scrapyards to the new Hafeera site, ensuring that scrap in addition to oils, lubricants, flammable substances and hazardous materials are transported safely, especially under extreme summer temperatures.”
He said the process is being jointly supervised by the Southern Municipality, Civil Defence, the Supreme Council for Environment, the Industry and Commerce Ministry and several other government bodies to prevent environmental or safety risks during the delicate relocation.
Authorities have also allowed operators to begin constructing facilities on their new allocated plots while the transfer continues.
“The extension gives businesses the flexibility needed to relocate without interrupting their operations,” Mr Al Buainain said. “At the same time, we are ensuring the move happens in an organised and secure manner that protects both workers and the surrounding environment.”
The relocation carries major economic significance beyond municipal planning.
State energy giant Bapco Energies has long sought to begin oil and gas excavation operations in Al Mazra’a, but the scrapyards – some operating there for decades – have remained the biggest obstacle.
Earlier geological assessments indicated reserves in the area could contain between three and four million barrels of oil, although officials believe actual figures may be considerably higher.
Southern Municipal Council chairman Abdulla Abdullatif described the relocation as a strategic turning point for Bahrain’s industrial future.
Mr Abdullatif
“This project goes far beyond moving scrapyards from one place to another,” Mr Abdullatif said. “We are reorganising an entire sector, creating a safer and more modern industrial environment while unlocking land that holds enormous strategic value for Bahrain’s future energy ambitions.”
He added that the purpose-built Hafeera facility would become a long-term hub for recycling and scrap-related industries.
“This is about balancing economic development, environmental responsibility and national growth,” he said. “The successful completion of this relocation will mark a major milestone for Bahrain’s industrial transformation.
“Also, there are plans for new homes in the surrounding area so this move also helps urban development to go ahead.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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