Several measures are being taken to reduce traffic congestion at key intersections and roads as part of ongoing developmental plans.
Parliament and Shura Council Affairs Minister Ghanim Al Buainain, in a response to parliamentary proposals expected to be discussed today, said the government had implemented solutions to address crossing problems on King Faisal Highway from the Sheraton Bahrain Hotel to the Bahrain Financial Harbour with plans to include the proposed pedestrian crossing in further road upgrades and expansion works on the highway.
Meanwhile, the government has approved a proposal to upgrade the Isa Town road network, including the National Charter, December 16 and Shaikh Salman Highways, to further ease traffic congestion.
“Work is underway on road designs and future developments in several areas such as the Riffa Clock Tower roundabout and the Wali Al Ahd Highway covering a number of key areas besides Isa Town,” he said in another response.
Other key suggestions:
* A proposal to allow only companies with 20 per cent Bahrainisation or more to compete for tenders has been partially approved in principle, but not in terms of the percentage. However, the minister said that a complete exclusion would negatively affect particular tenders and services provided by rare suppliers, requiring a flexible approach to implementation.
* A proposal to exempt Bahrainis from fees for General Directorate of Traffic services has been ruled out because of the negative impact it may have on state revenues.
“As for Bahrainis travelling within the GCC and facing difficulties, we urge them to check if they have any legal, criminal or traffic issues before leaving Bahrain, while also providing assistance, when necessary, to those who encounter difficulties abroad,” the minister replied to another proposal.
* The government has stated that Bahraini mothers married to expats or non-Bahraini mothers of Bahraini children may be eligible for reduced municipal fees, depending on specific criteria, in a response to another proposal.
* A proposal to allocate a public coast in Demistan has been approved by the government, but not at the proposed site earmarked for a new fishing jetty.
In another response, Mr Al Buainain said electricity and water would be connected temporarily during construction following the approval of a parliamentary proposal to provide such connections before permanent services are available.
“As for multiple generations or family members living in one home, they will have to provide separate addresses to qualify for separate subsidised meters,” he said.
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