Impose BD50 fee on expatriate drivers in Bahrain: MP

Manama : MP Ghazi Al Rahma has presented a bill to impose monthly fees not exceeding BD50 on non-Bahrainis who are holding driving licenses and those who own more than one vehicle. 

The proposal is aimed at reducing traffic jams, encourage expats to use public transportation, combat the phenomenon of illegal taxis and increase the revenues of the state, he told DT News yesterday.

“In the Kingdom, we have limited geographic space and high population rates. The increase of cars and drivers on the roads has become a burden on the state and citizens and residents alike, as traffic congestions have become a serious concern, in addition to the budget of the construction, expansion and maintenance of roads,” he said.  “The state has invested massively in the development of public transportation in the recent years. This proposal would encourage more people to use the public transport. It’s also a method to combat the illegal taxis issue, which has become a concern for taxi drivers who solely depend on their jobs and have been complaining about non-Bahraini driver illegally offering taxi services,” MP Al Rahma said. He also highlighted that if imposed, the proposed law would generate revenues for the state, adding that it received positive interaction from citizens.

“This proposal isn’t against expats or foreign investors. Their contribution to development is always appreciated. There are many who could afford it. The proposal specifies that the fees shouldn’t exceed BD50 and the government is at liberty to choose the fee,” the MP added.