Construction work carried out during inappropriate hours could soon face tighter regulations after Muharraq Municipal Council began pushing for clear legal controls to protect residents from excessive noise in residential neighbourhoods.
The issue was discussed by the council’s general committee yesterday following growing complaints from residents over building and construction work continuing during hours that disrupt peace and quiet, particularly in densely populated areas.
Muharraq Municipal Council vice-chairman Saleh Buhazaa said the current system left authorities with limited powers to intervene.
“At present, there is no clear legal mechanism regulating the timing of construction,” he said.
“In many cases, the matter depends on reaching an understanding with the contractor or project owner, who is naturally trying to complete the project on schedule.”
“However, development should not come at the expense of residents’ comfort and quality of life. We need clear rules that everyone understands and respects.”
Financial, administrative and legislative committee chairman Fadhel Al Oud said the council wanted legislation that balanced economic development with public wellbeing.
“We fully support Bahrain’s ongoing urban development, but it must go hand in hand with protecting the rights of families living near construction sites,” he said.
“Establishing defined working hours will reduce disputes and create a fair framework for both contractors and residents.”
Services and public utilities committee chairman Abdulqader Al Sayed said any future regulations should also allow flexibility for exceptional circumstances.
“There may be projects where certain works have to be carried out outside normal hours for technical or safety reasons,” he said.
“These cases should be carefully regulated through a permit system while ensuring that unnecessary noise is kept to an absolute minimum.”
The general committee is now studying proposals to introduce clear working-hour regulations that balance Bahrain’s continuing urban expansion with residents’ right to a safe, peaceful and high-quality living environment.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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