Changing the way we walk

TDT | Manama

The Works Ministry is paying special attention for the comprehensive development of walkways and associated facilities in the Kingdom, said Works Minister. Minister Essam Khalaf said the projects are being implemented in line with the Kingdom’s vision 2030 launched by His Majesty King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa in October 2008.

Works Ministry has undertaken projects in seafronts, central parks and in all governorates of the Kingdom, Khalaf said adding that the ministry is also introducing solar energy in many of the projects. The ministry, he said, is developing “walkways” by integrating modern cooling systems as well as other facilities to convert it into sporting facilities providing citizens with a safe environment to practice various activities.

As of now, the ministry has completed over 20 walkway projects in various governorates of the Kingdom, some of which being seafront projects and large parks with walking tracks. “Work is also progressing to developing rubberised walkways and enhance the green area by planting shade trees and environment-friendly trees,” an AlAyam report quoting the minister as saying.

“Initiatives are also on way to add more sports equipment, children games and public facilities along the walkways,” the minister said. Introduction of cooling and mist spraying equipment and wireless internet services on walkways are also part of the plan. The ministry, Khalaf said, is also mulling joining hands with the private sector in the development of these projects.

Solar cooling and lighting systems On the walkway projects in the Muharraq area, the minister said the Busaiteen coast walkway is a first of its kind in the development of waterfronts. “The project works on clean renewable energy, includes about 80 devices for exercise and physical activities, as well as other entertainment facilities.”

The Busaiteen coast walkway, which has a length of over 2 km, includes a public square, green spaces, family restrooms, recreational facilities, restaurants, other services, and parking for more than 400 cars. Its opening will coincide with the construction of a 3 km road in the Al Sayah area to reach the walkway with one lane in each direction.

The project, minister said, will enhance domestic tourism and provide a new space for Bahraini families. “The ministry is working on a cooling system that works by spraying mist,” Khalaf said. “This cooling system has been implemented in the walkway of Arad fort, which has an area of 50 thousand square meters located near the Seef complex in Muharraq.

Muharraq is also distinguished by the large Khalifa Walkway project, the Busaiteen Housing Walkway which is 600 meters long, and the Doha Arad Walkway. “A diving walkway has also been established and has a length of 600 meters and is located between Sheikh Issa Bridge and Sheikh Hamad Bridge.

The Monastery and Samaheej walkway has also been established and is located on Muharraq Ring Road and have sports and games area, palm trees, and umbrellas. On Walkways adjacent to the village of Galali, opposite the island of Dilmunia, sports equipment and lights that operate on solar energy have been installed.”

Sea fronts projects The capital has several walkways projects, the minister said, which includes the Tubli Walkway that directly overlooks the Tubli Bay. “The project extends over an area of 4,657 square meters, with a length of about 400 meters in its first phase.” The Sitra Bridge walkway is one of the other projects that overlooks the sea directly.

“It is located along the Sitra Bridge overlooking the sea with a length of 2000 meters and includes green areas, palms and various trees in addition to two areas for children’s games and sports for adults.” Saud Al-Faisal Walkway is one of the modern projects in the capital and is located in the north of the Juffair area. Ma’ameer Walkway, which is 720 square meters in length, includes green surfaces, palms and various trees in addition to a children’s play area and public facilities.