Stagnant Water in Hamad Town Raises Public Health and Environmental Concerns

Councillor calls for urgent action after inspection finds waste, blocked drainage, and mosquito breeding risks

TDT | Manama

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Stagnant water, accumulated waste, and overgrown vegetation inside a rainwater drainage channel in Hamad Town have raised serious health and environmental concerns, prompting calls for immediate intervention from the relevant authorities.

Northern Municipal Council member Abdulla Al Qobaisi, who represents the Ninth Constituency, said the deteriorating condition of the rainwater drainage and watercourse discharge site requires urgent action to safeguard residents and the surrounding environment.

Al Qobaisi warned that stagnant water and blocked drainage channels have created ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, insects, and rodents, posing potential public health risks to nearby families.

The concerns emerged following a field inspection conducted by Al Qobaisi alongside representatives from the Health Ministry and the Supreme Council for Environment. He noted that officials from the Works Ministry and the Northern Municipality did not attend the visit despite receiving official invitations.

The inspection revealed significant accumulations of rubbish and waste within the drainage channel, as well as dense tree growth obstructing water flow and contributing to prolonged water stagnation.

Representatives from the Health Ministry and the Supreme Council for Environment highlighted the potential environmental and health implications of allowing the site to remain in its current condition. They stressed the importance of accelerating cleaning and maintenance work to mitigate any risks.

Al Qobaisi said the issue has persisted for several years and underscored the need for a comprehensive, long-term solution for maintaining rainwater drainage channels across the Ninth Constituency.

He also called for stronger coordination among relevant government agencies to expedite remedial work and ensure residents' safety and well-being.

"The competent authorities must take the necessary steps to resolve this issue permanently," Al Qobaisi said, adding that a sustainable solution would protect the environment, improve public health, and prevent residents from continuing to face recurring risks caused by stagnant water, waste, and overgrown vegetation.