SNG: Bahrain: Muharraq City Development Project Phase I work nearing completion

By Zawya31 minutes ago Updated

By Staff Writer

Bahraini authorities said steady progress is being made on the Muharraq City Development Project with the first phase now nearing completion.

The scope of work includes development of 300 residences with plans to reach 2,000 housing units in partnership with the private sector, reported BNA.

The project is implemented in line with the royal directives to develop the city, preserve its historical, cultural and urban identity, and enhance its status as one of the most prominent historic cities in the kingdom, it stated.

Amna bint Ahmed Al Rumaihi, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning said work on the project was progressing across its various implementation components, thus paving the way for the completion of the remaining development phases in accordance with His Majesty’s vision and approved plans.

The minister later met His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister and briefed him on the latest developments in the implementation of the Muharraq City Development Project and its urban and housing outcomes and heritage aspects.

The Housing Minister gave a presentation for His Majesty the King on the project's outcomes, which cover an area of approximately 2 sq km and include the historic area and its surrounding districts.

His Majesty commended the efforts and joint cooperation of the participating government entities in achieving the objectives of this national project. He highlighted the importance of continuing co-ordination and integration among all relevant entities to complete the project, achieve its intended outcomes, and preserve the historical and civilisational standing of Muharraq.

King Hamad affirmed the historical and national value of Muharraq as a witness to key stages in the history of the kingdom, and as a city rich in civilisational, cultural and urban heritage that reflects the authenticity of Bahraini society and its Arab and Islamic identity.

His Majesty also emphasised the importance of preserving this heritage and ensuring its sustainability for future generations.

The Muharraq City Development Project also includes facilities and services, such as car parks, open squares and commercial shops which will contribute to the revival of neighbourhoods and enhancing their residential, social and economic vitality.

His Majesty highlighted the importance of ensuring that development work take into account the needs and aspirations of residents, and that the project's outcomes contribute to improving quality of life, enhancing services and facilities, and reviving historical furjan (neighbourhoods), while preserving their social fabric and authentic identity and strengthening their vitality and role in the Kingdom's urban development.

Minister Al Rumaihi gave a review of the project's objectives, which include developing historic neighbourhoods, reviving heritage sites and buildings, developing main streets and infrastructure, and providing green spaces and public facilities.

This is in addition to developing the area around His Highness Shaikh Isa Al Kabeer Palace, within an integrated urban vision that takes into account Muharraq's historical and social traits, combining the preservation of its authentic character with the requirements of modern urban development.

The presentation also covered plans to develop five main streets in Muharraq by upgrading infrastructure and urban façades, standardising signage and improving lighting, landscaping and street furniture.

It involves development of infrastructure across a 48km area, providing car parks as well as establishing 72 green squares with a total area of approximately 12,000 sq m and planting 100,000 trees, thereby enhancing the urban environment and providing public spaces that meet the needs of residents and visitors, it added.