A warning went out from the Muharraq Municipal Council yesterday over delays to the Old Muharraq Post Office parking project – described as an essential appeal factor to the Old Muharraq Suq.
Council chairman and area councillor Abdulaziz Al Naar expressed deep frustration over the significant delay in implementing the long-awaited parking project adjacent to the historic suq – known locally as the “Post Office Parking Lot”.
Despite the foundation stone for the project being laid in December 2024, actual construction has yet to commence, causing growing concern among merchants and residents alike.
During the council’s general-secretariat meeting yesterday, Mr Al Naar sharply criticised the implementing company, Amakin, for its failure to adhere to the project timeline and for not taking immediate steps to mitigate the impact of the delay.
Established in 1981 and specialised in parking management and property leasing, Amakin is the leading parking solutions provider in Bahrain, offering seamless mobility products and innovative management services.
“The closure of this vital parking area without beginning the actual construction has created a traffic and economic crisis,” said Mr Al Naar.
“Traders and visitors to the suq are struggling daily to find parking due to the newly-redesigned market layout, which has eliminated hundreds of roadside parking spots.”
According to Mr Al Naar, the consequences of the delay have been dire.
Mr Al Naar
“Commercial activity has declined noticeably. Many shop owners report their profits have been cut in half due to the lack of parking, which is deterring customers from visiting the suq.”
He issued a firm set of demands to Amazin:
* Immediate resumption of work: The project must move forward according to the announced timeline; any further delay is unacceptable.
* Temporary solutions: The company has been urged to provide interim parking solutions to ease the suffering of market-goers and shopkeepers.
* Transparent communication: Regular updates are expected on the progress of the project. The municipal council and the local community have a right to be informed.
Mr Al Naar highlighted the critical importance of transparency and accountability in public projects that affect daily life in historic commercial districts like Muharraq.
He also called on the relevant authorities to intervene urgently to resolve the delay and address the flawed market design that resulted in the loss of numerous side parking spaces.
“This isn’t just about parking; it’s about protecting the economic and social fabric of Muharraq,” he stated.
“If the current crisis is allowed to persist, it will have far-reaching consequences beyond the market itself.”
He warned that continued inaction could lead to lasting damage to local businesses, which rely heavily on foot traffic and convenient access to maintain their customer base.
Mr Al Naar expressed his solidarity with affected shop owners and regular visitors to the market.
“I stand fully with the traders and the public,” he affirmed.
“I will continue to follow this issue closely and push for immediate and effective solutions. Muharraq’s economic vitality must not be allowed to suffer due to poor planning or bureaucratic delays.”
The Old Muharraq Suq, one of Bahrain’s most culturally significant commercial areas, has long served as a hub for traditional trade and social exchange.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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