Hidd gets new fish market

Manama: A fish market was opened yesterday at Hidd Fishermen Port. The move comes as fishermen’s grievances and claims about being neglected by the authorities increased lately.

Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Minister Essam Khalaf said in a press statement that the Ministry has completed all infrastructural works to enhance services at Hidd Fishermen Port.

This included the opening of the fish market, following the request of area’s fishermen and residents.

“Spaces were allocated for fishermen to sell their catch at the dock, freshly after they arrive at the port. This process was done in accordance with the standards of Marine Resources Directorate at the ministry,” Khalaf said.

The step comes as fishermen’s grievances increased recently, especially after the authorities decided to remove their illegally-constructed cabins near the port.

The Minister explained, “Around 17 cabins selling fish outside the port were recently removed. The operation was done in coordination with Muharraq Governorate Municipal Council.”

He clarified that Hidd Fishermen Port is a public utility of about 84,000 square meters capable of accommodating about 100 boats, with a market size of about 1,200 square meters containing 21 cabins and featuring a range of services such as stores for fishermen’s tools, a mosque, hall room, cafeteria and a room for guards.

Khalaf added, “We are confident that this port is a new starting point of efforts to support the fishermen, according to the development strategy of marine resources in the Kingdom of Bahrain.”