Water samples taken from East Riffa’s Buhair Valley

Samples were collected from three locations in the valley after a request from Southern Municipal Council member and Third Constituency representative Abdulla Ebrahim Abdullatif.

This action follows increased visitor activity, as some individuals entered the protected site for informal recreation, raising questions about the safety of the water and surrounding environment.

 Abdullatif accompanied a Ministry of Health representative during the field inspection, where samples were collected and sent to accredited laboratories for analysis. The council is expected to receive the official findings once testing is completed.

He said the aim of the exercise was to rely on scientific assessment rather than speculation, particularly amid public concerns about possible contamination.

Previous reports submitted by the Ministry of Oil and Environment had indicated that the water in the valley was free from harmful substances or pollutants. However, the Ministry of Health requested additional testing to reinforce transparency and provide updated assurances to the public.

Buhair Valley is regarded as one of Bahrain’s significant environmental sites and is among the last remaining wet habitats in the Kingdom, supporting reeds, tall grasses and a wide range of birdlife, including migratory species such as flamingos, herons, ducks and rare sightings like the black heron and black-necked stork.

The ecological importance of the site led to directives to designate its sensitive zones as a nature reserve, aimed at preserving biodiversity and protecting its natural features for future generations.