MPs back plan for better public beach access

TDT | Manama

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MPs yesterday unanimously backed a plan to improve Bahrain’s beaches, keeping them open to the public and ensuring better upkeep and facilities. The proposal, put forward by MP Muneer Seroor, lays out a clear path for managing and improving the country’s shorelines.

It aims to keep access open while ensuring coastal areas are properly looked after. Seroor said, “Bahrain has plenty of coastline, but some of it needs to be set aside as public beaches, while other parts should be put to good use with the right services at entry and exit points to draw visitors and improve daily life.”

Attention

MPs have been paying more attention to the state of the country’s beaches, with calls for them to stay open, wellkept, and protected from being sold off.Some areas have been spruced up, but others have been left in poor shape.

Seroor sees the issue as a lawmaking priority, saying better beaches could bring in more visitors, drive investment, and give people more space for outings, sports, and gatherings.

He also pointed to the need for tougher action against pollution and illegal development along the coast.

He called for tighter enforcement of laws, including the 2006 Coastal Protection Law, and pushed for new rules forcing developers to keep part of their beachfront projects open to the public.

Environmental rules

“Those building on the coast should be required to set aside public space and stick to environmental rules,” he said, urging closer scrutiny of development work. The government pointed to projects already in motion.

The Bahrain Bay Beach Project spans 170,000 square metres with a 600-metre shoreline. The Qalali Beachfront development covers 100,000 square metres near Amwaj.

Revamp

In the south, Edamah is revamping Al Jazayer Beach, stretching across 1.2 kilometres. The Bahrain Tourism and Exhibitions Authority (BTEA) has backed a string of waterfront projects, including Sa’ada, a site overlooking Manama.

Al Jazayer Beach, being redeveloped with Edamah, is set to include food stalls and other services for visitors.