A call for action on public spaces, housing violations and urban cleanliness in a Capital Governorate constituency has been urgently made by the Capital Trustees Board.
Board services and public utilities committee chairwoman Huda Sultan unveiled a comprehensive presentation outlining the most pressing service needs in constituency two – Naim, Ras Ruman, Old Manama Suq, Burhama, Suwaifiya, Gufool and Salhiya.
The report highlights urgent concerns regarding public parks, urban green spaces, collective housing violations and misuse of road infrastructure.
Ms Sultan stressed the board’s commitment to improving living conditions across Manama’s neighbourhoods.
“Our residents deserve safe, clean and organised communities.”
Several major parks in the area are in dire need of maintenance and upgrades, such as:
- Ras Rumman Park (Block 306): The park suffers from a deteriorating perimeter fence and a poorly maintained playground. The committee is calling for the repair of the fence, renovation of the sports field and installation of shaded areas for the children’s play zone.
- Gufool Park (Block 312): Proposals include the construction of a new sports field, replacement of outdated play equipment and refurbishment of the park’s entrance and boundary wall.
“Public parks are not luxuries – they are lifelines for families,” said Ms Sultan. “Ensuring their safety and accessibility is a top priority.”
In a move to enhance environmental quality and offer residents more green space, the board is proposing the addition of landscaping along Imam Hussain Avenue in Old Manama and maintenance of existing greenery near Bab Al Bahrain.
The repair of the iconic fountain opposite Bab Al Bahrain is also on the agenda.
Ms Sultan
“Green spaces provide much-needed relief in urban environments and support public health,” added Ms Sultan. “Their expansion is crucial to making our city livable.”
The report identifies a growing problem of unauthorised road occupancy and improper reservation of parking spaces, particularly in Block 301 (Roads 116 and 118) and along Imam Hussain Avenue.
These practices obstruct pedestrian and vehicle traffic and contribute to community frustration.
“We have escalated these violations to the relevant authorities and are pressing for swift enforcement to restore order to our streets,” Ms Sultan added.
The committee expressed deep concern over the proliferation of unregulated group housing, especially the public display of laundry beyond private property lines in areas like Block 302 (Zarareeh neighbourhood) and Block 356 (Salhiya).
“These housing violations not only breach regulations but also damage the aesthetic and safety standards of residential areas,” Ms Sultan warned, calling for ‘firm enforcement’ and collaborative efforts with relevant ministries.
Officials have also documented several abandoned houses in Blocks 301 and 305, which pose safety risks and contribute to urban decay. Additionally, unauthorised livestock pens have been reported near residential zones too, violating municipal regulations.
“These are not minor infractions,” she said. “They are threats to public safety and must be addressed immediately.”
The presentation ended with a call to action for all relevant government agencies to collaborate in addressing these issues, ensuring the Second Constituency receives the ‘attention and investment’ it deserves.
The report has been referred to Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak for review.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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