Concerns Grow as 68% of 24-Hour Businesses in Muharraq Operate Illegally
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune - www.newsofbahrain.com
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Residents of Muharraq are increasingly alarmed as 52 businesses operate illegally around the clock, despite a striking 97 percent approval rate for 24-hour operation licences, comprising 68 percent of such establishments in the area.
In a meeting held on Tuesday by the Muharraq Municipal Council, representatives from the Muharraq Police Directorate, the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, and the municipal executive body expressed unease over the prevalence of unlicensed establishments operating continuously.
Data from the Muharraq Police Directorate shows that of the 81 shops open 24 hours a day, only 26 are properly licensed, leaving 55 businesses in violation of the law. These non-compliant operations include restaurants, convenience stores, cafés, a laundry, and a vape shop, which pose risks to public safety and regulatory compliance.
Interestingly, the police directorate approved 97 percent of applications for round-the-clock operation, with the average response time improving from three working days to just four hours. However, this high approval rate raises questions about enforcing licensing regulations.
During the meeting, the need to simplify the licensing process for businesses wishing to operate continuously was emphasised, alongside identifying the authorities responsible for enforcing compliance and taking legal action against violators. Concerns were raised about some establishments remaining open for business or, in some instances, as informal gathering spots for the owner's acquaintances.
Council Chairman Abdulaziz Al Naar stressed the need for a unified law across the kingdom to standardise and simplify licensing procedures. He advocated for a comprehensive approach that addresses all aspects of business operations, ensuring effective coordination among the relevant authorities within a collaborative framework.
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