Push for a walking track for Southern Governorate

TDT | Manama

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MPs will on Tuesday, vote on a plan to build a public walking track for the Seventh Constituency in the Southern Governorate. The Services Committee wants it passed, saying the case for it is sound.

Put forward by MP Dr Ali Al Nuaimi, the proposal seeks a purpose-built track for residents of Wadi Al-Sail, Jary Al Shaikh, West Riffa, A’ali and Al Rawda. The aim is to provide a safe place to walk and run close to home.

The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs backs the idea in principle. It says it will carry out the project once a suitable site is set aside and funds are available. The ministry also notes nearby places already used for exercise: A’ali walking area in Block 734 with a one-kilometre loop and shaded play and fitness areas; Zayed Town Park in Block 718 by Hoorat A’ali, about 800 metres long; the Riffa Park in Block 942 with children’s play areas and planting; and Esteqlal Walkway in Block 934, East Riffa, which has a rubber surface plus football and basketball courts.

As for Wadi Al-Sail, a December 2020 plan from the Southern Municipal Council did not proceed. The chosen plot overlaps the right-of-way of Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Highway and the land is not held by the ministry.

The General Sports Authority says it is ready to support what serves the sporting public within its remit. Under Decree No. 61 of 2021 and Decision No. 2 of 2021, its role covers licensing, regulation, oversight and grants for sports bodies.

The Southern Municipal Council raises no objection, saying a track would encourage everyday exercise in the area.