Municipal authorities have sounded an alarm over the growing trend of placing advertisement flyers and promotional leaflets without permission on private properties and vehicles across Bahrain.
The practice, which has been described as a direct violation of the kingdom’s public cleanliness law, has become increasingly visible in residential areas and city streets.
Muharraq Municipal Council vice-chairman Saleh Buhazaa said the issue undermines Bahrain’s urban image and contradicts national efforts to maintain high environmental and aesthetic standards.
“This phenomenon distorts the civilised appearance of our cities and neighbourhoods,” he told the GDN.
“It also compromises the level of cleanliness that our country works hard to maintain as part of its broader environmental and developmental vision.”
He added that many residents had expressed frustration over individuals and companies who distribute flyers and leaflets indiscriminately, placing them on car windshields, doors and building façades.
“What may seem like harmless advertising actually results in piles of waste across our streets,” he said.
“These papers end up flying around, blocking drains and ruining the general appearance of our urban areas.”
The council has submitted a series of recommendations to the ministries of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, Information, and Industry and Commerce to help regulate the practice.
Mr Buhazaa
“We have urged the government to set clear guidelines and restrictions on how printed advertising materials can be distributed,” said Mr Buhazaa.
“Commercial establishments should adapt to modern trends and use digital advertising and social media platforms. This is more effective, environmentally friendly and aligned with Bahrain’s digital transformation goals.”
The councillor also called on authorities to enforce penalties stipulated under the 2019 Public Cleanliness Law against violators who continue to distribute materials irresponsibly.
“Laws are already in place to protect public spaces, but what we need is stricter implementation,” he said.
“When people and businesses realise that there are real consequences, we will see a significant reduction in such behaviour.”
He also stressed the importance of community awareness campaigns to encourage citizens and business owners to respect cleanliness standards and civic regulations.
“Maintaining our cities’ beauty and hygiene is a shared responsibility,” he said.
“Everyone – from shop owners to advertisers to ordinary citizens – must contribute to preserving Bahrain’s modern and attractive image.”
Mr Buhazaa reaffirmed that municipal councils across the kingdom will continue to monitor and address field-level violations in collaboration with relevant authorities.
“We are committed to taking proactive steps and co-ordinating with government bodies to eliminate practices that harm our environment or urban character,” he added.
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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