Pearling revival

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Municipal councilors are undertaking significant initiatives aimed at encouraging pearl fishing in Bahrain, a practice deeply rooted in the nation’s heritage.

These efforts include plans to reduce the annual fees associated with pearling licenses, as well as to ease the conditions for license renewal and extend the duration of these licenses.

Recently, Mohammed Saad Al Dosari, a member of the Northern Municipal Council, submitted a proposal that has now been forwarded to the Council of Representatives for thorough consideration and discussion.

This proposal seeks to address several key aspects related to the licensing of pearling.

One of the primary recommendations within the proposal is to significantly reduce the annual fees required for renewing such licenses.

Financial burden

By lowering these fees, the councilor hopes to alleviate the financial burden on local citizens who wish to engage in this traditional practice. Additionally, the proposal suggests extending the license renewal period from the current annual requirement to every five years.

This change would not only simplify the licensing process but also provide license holders with greater stability and peace of mind.

License card

Another important element of the proposal is the idea of issuing a license card that features the name and photo of the license holder.

This card would serve as a means of identification, helping to streamline the licensing process and enhance the legitimacy of the practice.

Moreover, the proposal advocates for a transition from the current paper-based application process to an electronic system.

By allowing applications to be submitted electronically through a digital platform managed by the relevant ministry, the proposal aims to eliminate the need for in-person attendance, making it more convenient for applicants.

The overarching goal of this proposal is to reduce costs for citizens and encourage fishing enthusiasts, particularly the youth, to participate in the traditional practice of pearl diving.