Bahrain's 'pathetic' picnic spots
Manama : While planning a picnic, one would possibly dream about leisure time to bond with their loved ones and enjoy the grandeur of natural beauty.
However this description doesn’t seem to go blend in with the pathetic condition of the many popular destinations here that are left dirty and unsafe for the public.
Some feel it is primarily the responsibility of the picnickers to clean up the mess they leave behind.
With the winter approaching, the authorities have set up plans to make the Sakhir tenting area fully functional, as it is one of the most popular camping destinations in the kingdom. However sources revealed it would take months to clean up the area, as thousands flock there every year to enjoy the weather.
DT News learned that Sakhir, the ministry-designated camping area, is not the only camping place on the island. Families also prefer spots like the open space next to the Riffa Walk and the Al Musakar Avenue for the purpose.
Safety and security of the area is pathetic. However what makes the situation more unpleasant is the attitude of the picnickers, who mindlessly dump garbage, displaying serious lapse in responsibility.
DT News spoke to one of the families picnicking in the open area.
“The climate is good here and we are now looking forward to our family get-together. We can’t afford going to Sakhir camps every day, so we prefer places like these. However what disturbs the overall ambience are the irresponsible youths who gather to have drinks and make ruckus during the night hours,” one of the picnickers said.
While visiting the area, DT News spotted several empty alcohol bottles and cans strewn across the area, confirming the complaints raised by the family.
The open area adjacent to The Rashid Equestrian & Horseracing Club is another favourite picnicking spot. The roads here are full of loose sands posing grave threats to vehicles and especially to children riding bicycles.
When informed about the situation, an official source from the Southern Municipality told DT News that the authorities have taken measures to spread awareness among the public.
“Our department encourages promoting community partnership, raising public awareness and providing a safe environment for everyone. We will be installing awareness billboards on the roads,” he explained. He added that a team of 40 employees was tasked with cleaning up five different locations in the kingdom.
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