TOILETS at public parks, walkways and gardens across the country could be permanently sealed off following reports of vandalism and looting.
The Muharraq Municipal Council took the decision during its regular meeting yesterday, to avoid repeated destruction and misuse which has cost the government thousands of dinars.
The decision comes as municipal facilities were reopened to the public on Sunday after being closed down in March last year following the Covid-19 outbreak.
However, councillors have kept the door open for the Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Ministry to seek investors interested in putting money towards the maintenance of these conveniences.
Minister Essam Khalaf has ratified an earlier decision by the council to cancel new toilets at Ayn Raya Public Park in Dair.
“It is a waste of resources to have toilets fixed and maintained every month due to the irresponsible behaviour shown by a few people,” said council chairman Ghazi Al Murbati.
“The government spends thousands of dinars on the maintenance of these facilities, money that could be used to build multiple new parks or other must municipal facilities.
“Most of those going to the parks are area residents and they can use the toilets in their homes before or after visiting the park.
“The only way we can consider reopening the toilets is if an investor is interested; he can charge a token fee from the users.”
Council services and public utilities committee chairman Fadhel Al Oud agreed that vandalism and looting had gone out of hand.
“We have people dismantling the full toilet seat within minutes and stealing it, or rip off taps and faucets and steal them to sell.
“Most of the parks are near homes, so toilets are unnecessary.”
However, eldest council member Waheed Al Mannai warned his colleagues that the closure of public conveniences would mean hardship for those suffering from diabetes and other illnesses.
“Toilets are left unattended and unmonitored leaving them an easy target for insensible acts.
“But disciplined and civilised individuals who use the park and require the toilets shouldn’t be punished for the action of a few.
“The elderly and those with disabilities should be allowed free use as an exception.”
Capital Trustees Board chairman Saleh Tarradah said residents should take up the responsibility of ensuring the toilets are not sabotaged.
“Sealing off the toilets is punishing the masses for the acts of a few.
“Cameras should be put outside the toilets: That will limits the suspects in case of vandalism or looting.
“The cost for the damages should be recovered from the suspects who should also be forced to carry out maintenance at the parks for a year as alternative punishment.”
Meanwhile, Southern Municipal Council chairman Bader Al Tamimi said it was a tough call, with both sides having valid points.
“Damages cost thousands of dinars but at the same time closing the toilets or charging people for using them is not the right approach.”
Council services and public utilities committee chairman Abdulla Abdullatif said toilets should continue free as part of the public service.
“Closing toilets is not the solution; vandals who can’t have access to the toilets to steal may shift to the rides.
“Vandalism and looting is occurring in parks with or without surveillance cameras, but the issue gets out of hand when it comes to toilets or the surrounding areas as they are not covered by the cameras.”
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