Manama: Shaikh Khalid bin Abdulla Al Khalifa, Deputy Prime Minister, led the 312th session of the Ministerial Committee on Development Projects and Infrastructure.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the committee conveyed its aspirations for Bahrain's sustained security and prosperity under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa and guidance from His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister. The committee condemned Iranian attacks on civilian facilities and critical infrastructure, citing them as violations of Bahrain's sovereignty and threats to civilian safety, as well as breaches of international law and conventions.
The committee lauded the Bahrain Defence Force, National Guard, Ministry of Interior, and other authorities for their commitment to safeguarding the Kingdom. It also commended the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture for its efforts in Ramli District and reviewed the Minister of Works' visit to Muharraq, emphasizing ongoing project developments.
The committee noted Bahrain's contributions towards the New Urban Agenda, as highlighted by Amna bint Ahmed Al Rumaihi, Minister of Housing and Urban Planning, at the UN meeting in New York. It recognized Bahrain's dedication to Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
It celebrated the Mobile Housing Finance Initiative's success, organized by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning with Housing Bank, which offered citizens comprehensive housing services. The committee welcomed new digital government services developed through a collaboration of multiple ministries, supporting Bahrain's digital transformation vision.
The Deputy Prime Minister instructed the Ministry of Works to open the northern Isa Town Interchange Bridge soon, noting the completion of its 840-metre dual bridge, with ongoing work to finalize the project as scheduled.
The committee approved several initiatives, including extending the concession with Bahrain Public Transport Company until 2030. This renewal includes a pilot program introducing electric buses. Additionally, the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications was tasked with establishing a new marine berth for construction materials.
The committee mandated the Supreme Council for Environment to regulate traditional fish traps legally and approved a new Engineering Guide for urban landscaping, instructing the Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture to implement it.
A performance report from the Survey and Land Registration Bureau revealed a 12% increase in property transactions and a 14% rise in mortgage transactions, with 91% processed electronically. The report underscored the Bureau's role in urban planning data.
The committee reviewed the electricity and water sectors, praising the Ministry of Electricity and Water Affairs for maintaining energy supplies during peak demand periods. At the meeting's conclusion, the launch of a public tender for the King Faisal Highway Development Project was announced, aiming to enhance traffic flow. Additionally, the Ministry of Works will begin trial operations at the expanded North Sitra Wastewater Treatment Plant in early August.
Source: Bahrain News Agency