Manama: Shaikh Khalid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, chaired the 315th meeting of the Ministerial Committee for Development Projects and Infrastructure. Within the framework of the Kingdom of Bahrain's presidency of the 46th session of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Supreme Council, the committee commended the outcomes of the 29th meeting of GCC Ministers and officials responsible for municipal affairs, which was held in Bahrain last week.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the meeting concluded with decisions and recommendations aimed at advancing joint GCC municipal work and supporting sustainable development goals. The committee emphasized the importance of major development projects and their prompt implementation in line with approved plans. A briefing presented by the Minister of Works outlined the latest developments regarding the tender for the first phase of the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmed Al Sabah Highway Development Project.
The committee congratulated the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications and Bahrain Airport Company on the airport receiving three awards at the 2026 Skytrax World Airport Awards. This achievement coincides with the return of passenger traffic to normal levels and reflects the operational efficiency of this vital facility, alongside efforts to maintain high standards of quality in passenger services.
Further, the committee welcomed the development by the Survey and Land Registration Bureau and the Ministry of Industry and Commerce of advanced digital government services. This initiative is part of the government's ongoing efforts towards comprehensive digital transformation to streamline procedures and provide efficient services.
The committee discussed several agenda items, including approving a proposal for reviewing development guidelines in heritage and historical areas during the building permit procedures' preliminary approval stage. It reviewed progress in the Manama Souq Development Project, focusing on the implementation plans for the Manama Squares Project, property surveying, street development, and tourism and cultural projects.
The committee also explored options for improving the sewage network efficiency in the Central Manama Souq area and approved solutions to ensure the sustainable availability of building materials in local markets. Additionally, it was briefed on legislation related to its work, the implementation of the National Waste Management Strategy, and ways to enhance civil protection in facilities and residences.