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ONE of West Riffa area’s oldest residential districts could be completely redeveloped under an ambitious proposal approved unanimously by the Southern Municipal Council yesterday.
The plan, submitted by area councillor Khalid Shajra, calls for a full upgrade of Block 910 neighbourhood’s infrastructure, including repaving roads, improving lighting and establishing a modern stormwater drainage network.
According to the council’s services and public utilities committee’s report, the project includes paving internal streets and intersections with asphalt and interlocking pavers, upgrading lighting networks, and developing a rainwater drainage system to address flooding during heavy rainfall.
The initiative aims to improve traffic flow, extend the lifespan of existing roads and enhance safety for both motorists and pedestrians.
Mr Al Shaikh
Committee chairman Ali Al Shaikh said the project reflects the council’s commitment to improving residents’ quality of life through tangible urban upgrades.
“Block 910 has long required a comprehensive overhaul,” Mr Al Shaikh said. “This initiative will not only restore the technical condition of its streets, but also enhance traffic safety and beautify the neighbourhood. It falls squarely within our mandate under the 2001 Municipalities Law to propose and support local infrastructure projects that directly serve the community.”
He added that the council’s unanimous vote ‘shows clear consensus on the urgency of the project’, noting that it aligns with Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030, which prioritises developing infrastructure and sustainable urban communities across the kingdom.
Mr Shajra
Mr Shajra said the project was driven by feedback from residents who have long sought improvements to the deteriorating streets and public facilities in their area.
“Many of the roads in Block 910 have reached the end of their lifespan,” Mr Shajra explained. “Residents have faced difficulties moving in and out of their homes, especially during the rainy season when drainage is inadequate. By improving roads, lighting and stormwater systems, we are addressing long-standing concerns and enhancing safety and comfort for families.”
He added that revitalising the area would also ‘preserve its aesthetic character and historical identity while bringing it up to modern urban standards’.
Councillors noted that this proposal fits within a broader national and municipal effort to upgrade older neighbourhoods and strengthen infrastructure networks throughout the Southern Governorate.
The council emphasised that such projects not only improve the day-to-day lives of citizens but also support Bahrain’s long-term economic and environmental objectives by promoting sustainability and efficient service delivery.
With the council’s endorsement secured, the proposal will now be formally referred to Municipalities and Agriculture Minister Wael Al Mubarak to co-ordinate with implementing ministries and agencies.
Once approved at the ministerial level, work is expected to commence on design, planning and phased execution. “This decision demonstrates how local councils can play a proactive role in shaping the future of their communities,” added Mr Shajra. “We hope to see swift action to turn this plan into reality and deliver visible improvements for the people of West Riffa.”
mohammed@gdnmedia.bh
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