Historic burial mounds in Hamad Town have allegedly become an unlikely gathering spot for packs of stray dogs, sparking fear among residents and prompting urgent calls for action from the Northern Municipal Council.
Councillors claimed during their weekly meeting that the ‘mound monsters’ had effectively turned the heritage site into a ‘stronghold den’, with residents now avoiding the area altogether out of fear of being attacked.
A proposal calling for the wild dogs to be removed was submitted by western Hamad Town councillor Abdulla Al Qobaisi.
It was unanimously approved by members, before being referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak for consideration.
Mr Al Qobaisi described the situation around the ancient burial mounds as increasingly concerning, saying stray dogs had become a regular presence in the area.
Though no cases of dog attacks have been officially reported yet, Mr Qobaisi said people were ‘genuinely scared’.
“People do not want to pass near the mounds’ fence because they fear being attacked by the dogs gathered there,” he added.
In a moment that drew reactions from fellow councillors, Mr Al Qobaisi compared the sight of the dogs gathering in packs to scenes from the classic mafia film The Godfather.
“They sit there in large groups like scenes from the movie,” he said.
“The area has become their headquarters.”
Residents in nearby neighbourhoods have reportedly raised concerns over dogs barking at night, as well as potential risks to children, joggers and elderly people passing close to the historic site. Council chairman Dr Sayed Shubbar Al Wedaie stressed that humane solutions were needed.
“We are not calling for the eradication of stray dogs,” he clarified.
“These animals need to be removed from the location and dealt with properly in a humane way that protects both residents and the animals themselves.”
Dr Al Wedaie said the issue had become a concern for several families living nearby, particularly with increased outdoor activity during the evenings.
The burial mounds in Hamad Town form part of Bahrain’s rich archaeological landscape and are considered among the kingdom’s most important historical treasures.
Councillors warned that an increase in stray animals could limit public access and undermine the heritage site’s appeal.
The council’s recommendation now rests with the Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Ministry, which is expected to study possible solutions including relocation, monitoring and intensified animal control efforts.
Meanwhile, residents hope swift intervention will restore a sense of safety around one of Bahrain’s most recognisable historic landmarks.
The mounds are under the Dilmun Burial Mounds protected under the World Heritage Site declared by Unesco since 2019.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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