A site inspection into growing environmental concerns in western Hamad Town has renewed calls for urgent action to restore a neglected rainwater drainage channel after councillors and officials documented stagnant water, heavy vegetation and accumulated waste.
Northern Municipal Council member for Constituency Nine (western Hamad Town), Abdulla Al Qobaisi, led the inspection of the drainage and stormwater channel serving parts of the district, accompanied by representatives from the Health Ministry and the Supreme Council for Environment (SCE) yesterday. Invited officials from the Works Ministry and the Northern Municipality were unable to attend.
The delegation found large quantities of rubbish and debris, together with dense overgrown trees and shrubs obstructing the watercourse. The blockage has left water standing for extended periods, creating conditions favourable for mosquitoes and other pests.
Residents have also raised concerns over the appearance of rodents and snakes around the area, particularly during the hotter months.
“The situation on the ground requires prompt attention,” Mr Al Qobaisi told the GDN.
“We witnessed extensive vegetation, accumulated waste and stagnant water inside the drainage channel. These conditions affect the surrounding neighbourhood and naturally concern families living nearby.
He said the visit aimed to assess the situation firsthand and ensure that all relevant authorities were aware of residents’ concerns, adding: “We hope to work with all concerned authorities to identify practical solutions and co-ordinate the necessary maintenance.”
According to Mr Al Qobaisi, residents have repeatedly highlighted the need for regular cleaning of the drainage channel to prevent issues like those highlighted.
“Routine maintenance is essential for infrastructure of this nature,” he said. “Our objective is not simply to resolve the current issue but to establish a sustainable maintenance programme that prevents similar situations from recurring.”
Health and environmental officials participating in the visit also stressed the importance of keeping drainage channels clean to minimise potential public health and environmental risks associated with stagnant water.
Mr Al Qobaisi said he would continue following up the matter through the Northern Municipal Council until a comprehensive solution is implemented.
He also appealed for swift co-ordination between the relevant government agencies to address the issue as soon as possible.
“Our residents deserve a clean and safe environment,” he said.
“I’m confident that through co-operation between all concerned authorities, we can restore the drainage channel, improve environmental conditions and provide long-term reassurance to the people of Constituency Nine.”
The inspection comes as municipalities across Bahrain continue efforts to improve stormwater infrastructure and environmental maintenance, particularly in residential areas where blocked drainage channels can contribute to water stagnation and increased pest activity.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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