A simmering parking crisis around Bahrain International Airport has erupted once again, with car rental companies accused of ignoring a hard-fought agreement and flooding residential neighbourhoods with fleet vehicles – prompting fresh warnings of legal action, police intervention and municipal crackdowns.
Area MP Mohammed Al Olaiwi said several rental companies have quietly slipped back into old habits despite a breakthrough deal reached last year with Bahrain Airport Company and parking operator Amakin.
The agreement, brokered in August last year, was meant to end the controversial practice of companies parking large numbers of rental cars in residential streets surrounding the airport, particularly in Block 202, where residents have long complained of blocked garages, congestion and growing daily disruption.
“The rental companies have started parking inside the airport, but only for a limited number of cars and at BD20 rent per car monthly,” said Mr Al Olaiwi.
“But their total fleet is five to six times higher than the spaces they are renting, and they continue parking in Block 202 – sadly right outside residents’ homes, including mine.”
The legislator did not hide his frustration, accusing some operators of prioritising profit over residents’ wellbeing.
“We are speaking of rental charges of no less than BD15 a day even for the smallest vehicle, yet they continue looking for the cheapest way possible,” he said.
“Some companies have fully respected the agreement. The remaining ones have not.”
Mr Al Olaiwi stressed that businesses should not expect any grace period.
“That ended last year,” he said firmly.
“Residents have been told to call the police whenever a rental car is found blocking garages or roads, and photos of vehicles belonging to violating companies will be forwarded to the Public Prosecution.
“It is unfair that residents get delayed from work or school while even emergency vehicles face difficulty entering neighbourhoods.”
Meanwhile, Mr Al Olaiwi praised GCC travellers for largely changing their behaviour.
“The airport parking packages by Amakin are excellent and affordable, so GCC nationals have started using them,” he said.
“The issue with GCC travellers is improving. The far bigger problem remains the rental companies – because of the sheer number of vehicles involved.”
The growing anger has now triggered intervention from Muharraq Municipal Council chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar, who warned that authorities were prepared to escalate enforcement measures if violations continue.
“We have received repeated complaints from residents living near the airport and the situation is becoming increasingly unacceptable,” Mr Al Naar said.
“Residential areas were never meant to become free parking lots for private businesses trying to avoid operational costs.
“There must be respect for residents, public roads and the law.”
Mr Al Naar said the authorities concerned were studying stricter penalties that could include fines, vehicle impounding and tighter monitoring in affected neighbourhoods.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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