IMPROVING services, developing infrastructure and strengthening community engagement tops the Capital Trustees Board’s commitments during its final term which started yesterday.
Chairman Saleh Tarradah said that the board will push for new investments in modern waste management systems, improved maintenance schedules for infrastructure and digital solutions that allow residents to report issues and track responses in real time.
The board, he added, is determined to transform municipal services from basic utilities into a driver of sustainable urban development.
He praised the members’ dedication in tabling initiatives and addressing issues that directly affect citizens’ daily lives.
“The co-operation with the executive body at the Capital Trustees Authority has been a cornerstone in achieving the council’s vision,” said Mr Tarradah.
“We are proud of what has been accomplished, but we also know the next stage requires even greater effort to meet citizens’ expectations.”
He stressed that upgrading municipal services will be the cornerstone of the board’s agenda in the coming term, noting that citizens’ quality of life was directly linked to the efficiency and reliability of these services.
“Our priority is to raise the level of everyday services – from waste collection, road maintenance and drainage networks, to street lighting, public cleanliness and green spaces,” he said.
“These are not secondary matters; they are the backbone of urban life and they reflect the state’s ability to respond to people’s needs swiftly and effectively.”
Board members pledged to intensify efforts in several key areas, including expanding public parks, launching community-based initiatives such as the ‘Friends of Parks’ programme, finding innovative solutions to parking challenges, developing traditional markets and heritage-oriented facilities, and supporting investment projects in partnership with the private sector.
“Our goal is not only to maintain services but to create solutions that raise the quality of life in the capital,” noted Mr Tarradah.
“We will work hand-in-hand with the ministry to deliver on the aspirations of citizens and preserve Manama’s status as a modern, vibrant capital.
“Together, we aim to reinforce Manama’s position as a fully integrated capital that meets the requirements of sustainable development and contributes to the well-being of every citizen.”
The meeting was attended by Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak, Under-Secretary for Municipal Affairs Shaikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, Capital Trustees Board director-general Mohammed Al Sehli and senior ministry officials.
Mr Al Mubarak stressed that the ministry would remain a strong partner in supporting municipal projects.
“The Capital Trustees Board has played a pivotal role in following up on citizens’ needs and enhancing municipal services,” he said.
“The ministry’s hand is always extended in partnership, and the next stage will witness even stronger co-operation, particularly in infrastructure, urban planning and essential services.”
After reviewing the minutes of the previous meeting and ministry responses to proposals, the board also approved the formation of special committees for the 2025-2026 term.
The public relations and information committee will be chaired by board vice-chairwoman Khulood Al Qattan, technical committee by Mubarak Al Nuaimi, services and public utilities committee by Mohammed Tawfeeq Al Abbas and the financial, administrative and legislative committee affairs committee by Huda Sultan.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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