North Council doubles down on A’ali central market push despite ministry rejection

TDT | Manama                                                      

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Undeterred by the Ministry of Municipalities’ rejection, the Northern Municipal Council is doubling down on a push for a central market in A’ali, sparking a lively discussion as residents express concerns that existing shops, mainly catering to foreign investors, do not address their needs.

The proposal aims to create a central market in A’ali to facilitate buying and selling in one location, providing services that meet world-class quality standards.

This initiative also supports A’ali’s recognition as a Healthy City by the World Health Organization. The proposed central market will include shops for selling vegetables and fruits, fish, meat, and groceries.

Proposal

In a written response, the Ministry of Municipalities stated that after reviewing the proposal, it found that the A’ali area is adequately served by existing commercial shops, leading to the rejection of the central market’s establishment.

Municipal Council member Abdullah Ashoor voiced his disappointment at the response from His Excellency Eng. Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, regarding the central market in A’ali.

He said: “This proposal, originally brought forward by former council member Hussain Al Aali, has gone unanswered since we submitted it in 2020.

Our recent follow-up yielded the disheartening news that the idea has been rejected. We strongly disagree with this decision, as there is a clear need for a central market that serves not only A’ali residents but also those from surrounding areas.”

Population

The population in A’ali has surged, with newcomers from Areas 715 and 716 now part of the community.

A central market would greatly benefit various stakeholders by serving local residents and supporting Bahraini employees in this sector, as it would be designated for Bahrainis and promote Bahraini products. “The ministry’s response claimed that existing commercial shops adequately serve the community.

However, many of these shops primarily cater to Asian investors, neglecting the needs of Bahraini residents,” he added. Necessity “Numerous locals have contacted me, insisting on the necessity of this central market, and there is suitable land available.

We could easily repurpose municipal land for this vital project,” Ashoor said. In conclusion, the council will persist in advocating for the establishment of a central market in A’ali to meet the growing needs of the community and ensure all residents have access to essential goods and services.