A unified WhatsApp channel that will receive general enquiries from people and offer the latest updates on the progress of transactions has been launched by the Southern Governorate.
Southern Municipality director-general Issa Al Buainain affirmed that the new hotline comes as part of the municipality’s ongoing efforts to develop tools and capabilities to keep pace with technological advancements.
The new number – 17986000 – aims at making complaints and suggestions easy to report through a fast and accessible channel for citizens and residents.
“Through this number, the municipality receives phone calls from visitors, which are redirected from the reception to the relevant department for responses,” said Mr Al Buainain.
“It will be used to follow-up on citizens’ requests, while also providing and receiving updates and necessary documentations for completing transactions.
“The municipality is constantly working to improve its communication channels with the community, and to give due attention to all feedback, complaints and suggestions received.”
According to Mr Al Buainain, during the first half of the year, the municipality received 1,096 complaints and suggestions via Tawasul. This includes 946 complaints, 23 suggestions and 150 enquiries, all of which, he says, were addressed, and necessary actions were taken within the timeframe set in the service-level agreement.
He stressed the municipality’s commitment to addressing concerns of citizens, whether through the Tawasul platform, local Press and media, or social media.
A specialised work team forwards all observations, enquiries and grievances, and conducts on-site inspections and takes necessary measures, if needed, to resolve issues in accordance with the municipality’s procedures and requirements.
Mr Al Buainain called on all citizens and residents to communicate with the municipality through Tawasul, the new hotline 17986000 (either directly or WhatsApp), or other communication channels.
He emphasised the municipality’s keenness to listen to its clients, understand their needs and complete their enquiries and transactions in the shortest time possible.
When submitting complaints or requests, people are being urged to provide as much information as possible, including the exact location and nature of the issue.
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