East Sitra’s push for first public beach faces hurdles

TDT | Manama

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East Sitra wants a public beach, but both nature and governmental plans may stand in the way. At its latest meeting, the Capital Trustees Board reviewed a proposal from council member Maitham Al Haiki for a beach in East Sitra. Al Haiki noted that the Capital Governorate “lacks recreational beaches that serve as outlets for residents,” but the council decided to refer the proposal back to the committee for further examination.

Al Haiki explained that the project aims to provide recreational facilities and safe areas for children and families to relax and enjoy, which “enhances the physical and psychological health and well-being of citizens.”

He argued that the beach would also stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities for the local community. Emphasising Bahrain’s geographical advantages, he remarked, “Bahrain is surrounded by water, a distinguishing feature since ancient times,” and that the island’s unique location should be capitalised upon to develop more recreational beaches for families.

Location

He suggested a location opposite East Sitra, proposing that residents and merchants could contribute to the construction of the beach if government funding proves inadequate, similar to the approach taken with Malkiya Beach.

Al Haiki also expressed disappointment, saying, “There is criticism directed at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning for not creating a beach in East Sitra, similar to other housing cities, such as Madinat Salman, which has a large beach. We hope that the ministry will allocate a place to be a beach for the residents of the area.”

Board member Huda Sultan supported the proposal, asserting that “the Kingdom of Bahrain is an island, and it is supposed to have beaches that citizens can use for recreation and relaxation,” while acknowledging the necessity to consider environmental and security issues.

Support

Deputy Chairperson Khuloud Al Qattan reiterated the council’s support for beach projects in new areas like East Sitra, stressing the importance of engaging with relevant authorities, including the Supreme Council for the Environment and the Ministry of Housing, to ensure the project’s safety.

Board member Mohammed Al Abbas recognised the need for a beach but called for a comprehensive study to gather input from relevant authorities and East Sitra residents, particularly regarding privacy matters. He stated, “There should be a comprehensive study for such projects and the approval of the concerned authorities, such as the Ministry of Housing and the Supreme Council for the Environment.”

In-depth study

Walaa Bader from Ministry of Housing, said that the Ministry is keen to conduct an in-depth study, including an environmental assessment. She explained that prior studies in East Sitra identified strong currents and unfavourable environmental conditions that complicate the development of a beach. Ultimately, the council voted to refer the major proposal back to the committee for further study, consultation with relevant authorities, and consideration of community opinions.