Muharraq Souq File Returned to Committee After Member Criticism

TDT | Manama

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The long discussed challenges facing Muharraq Souq resurfaced during the Twelfth Ordinary Meeting of the Sixth Municipal Session, where members debated service needs and structural solutions before voting to return the matter to committee for further study.

The agenda item addressed problems and requirements related to Muharraq Souq, a historic commercial hub that continues to face pressure from parking shortages and infrastructure limitations.

Debate

Municipal member Fadhel Al Oud delivered a direct intervention during discussions, stating that the issue is visible yet repeatedly avoided.

“We see the problem in Muharraq Souq, but we act as if we do not see it,” he said. “Providing parking spaces or temporary fixes is merely cosmetic treatment placed over the issue without addressing the core problem.”

He argued that the fundamental solution lies in removing the agricultural basins and converting the space into parking facilities. “The engineer who worked on those basins made an effort, but it has become clear that the work was not suitable. The matter must now be corrected,” he added.

Developments

Member Abdulqader Mahmood noted recent developments on the matter. He indicated that Council Chairman and proposal sponsor Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi had met with responsible officials regarding updates. Based on those discussions, the committee submitted the current recommendation.

Decision

Following deliberations, members voted to refer the Muharraq Souq file back to the committee for further study.

The decision reflects a parliamentary style approach prioritising procedural review before endorsing structural changes, particularly in matters affecting one of Muharraq’s most historic commercial districts.