Could abandoned houses in Bahrain help homeless expats?

TDT | Manama

The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain, a vibrant and growing nation, is home to a diverse population, including a significant number of expatriate workers. 

While the country has seen remarkable development, there is a concerning issue that deserves attention – the prevalence of abandoned houses and the lack of affordable housing for many low-income expats.

It's a problematic situation where we have empty, neglected properties alongside individuals and families struggling to find suitable, affordable accommodation. 

This disconnect presents a unique opportunity for the government to step in and make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

The proposal is simple: the government, or an appointed team of expat advocates, should identify and assess the abandoned houses across Bahrain, particularly in areas like Manama, Hoora, and Gudaibiya. These properties could then be refurbished and made available to low-income expats, either rent-free or at a nominal cost (less than 50 BD per month).

This initiative would provide a much-needed lifeline to the many expat laborers, daily wage earners, and others who currently find themselves in dire living conditions. It would give them a roof over their heads, a sense of stability, and the chance to improve their quality of life.

Moreover, this approach aligns with the country's broader efforts to promote social welfare and ensure that all residents, regardless of their economic status, have access to decent housing. 

It's a win-win situation – the government can address a pressing social issue while also making use of otherwise neglected assets.

Of course, implementing such a program would require careful planning, resource allocation, and coordination between various government agencies and community organizations. 

However the potential benefits far outweigh the challenges, and it's a proposal worth seriously considering.

By repurposing Bahrain's abandoned houses to provide affordable housing for the less fortunate, we can not only improve the living conditions of our expat community but also demonstrate our commitment to creating a more inclusive and equitable society.