Muharraq Seeks Free Canopy Permits

TDT | Manama

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Muharraq Municipal Council is moving to approve draft changes to Bahrain’s public roads law, while calling for private shade canopy permits to be kept free of fees.

The draft bill would amend parts of Decree-Law No. 2 of 1996 on the occupation of public roads. The council said the law needed to be brought up to date, with clearer rules on road use, stronger checks, and better care for the look of streets and public safety.

The recommendation followed a review of the draft sent by the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture. The council said the changes fell within its powers under Municipalities Law No. 35 of 2001.

A council committee said the draft would help renew the legal rules that govern how public roads are used.

But it raised reservations over plans to raise fines.

The committee said the sums should be looked at again so the law can deter breaches without placing unfair strain on citizens or shop and business owners.

Punishment, it said, must fit the breach. It also said the cost of higher fines should be weighed against the financial strain already faced by households and traders.

The committee said people should be made to follow municipal rules without needless extra costs.

It also urged that permits for private shade canopies should carry no fees, saying they protect people and cars from the sun and other weather.

Canopies, the committee said, are now a practical need for many homes.

Many families own two cars or more, while newer housing plots often lack enough room for garages or parking spaces for every vehicle.

That has made shade canopies a workable answer for families, the committee said, while still helping keep streets orderly and safe.