The Director of the Public Works Ministry in Bahrain, Maryam Hussain Yahya, has announced that seven tenders were issued last month worth a total of BD 3.659 million ($7.95 million) to upgrade Bahrain’s infrastructure.
The plans include installing batteries in streetlights, expansion of the Tubli sewage treatment plant and sewage maintenance at 30 schools over the next two years. Two of the tenders are for the operation and maintenance of plants in Sitra and Isa worth BD497,485.
These projects are in response to political protests which racked the country and led to the economy’s decline. According to some authorities, up to 8,000 Shia workers were fired or suspended for taking part in the protests.
Due to the disruptions, the International Monetary Fund revised its growth estimate for Bahrain from 4.5% to 3.1%, while the government put a hold on bond issuances until rates fall again. High oil prices have kept the country afloat but consumer confidence needs to improve.
The government recently withdrew from hosting the opening round of the 2011 FIA Formula One World Championship so that the country can focus on the process of national dialogue.
The government’s next step, now that security has been restored and an economic stimulus package planned, is to talk to members of the opposition groups to try and find a solution to the sectarian divide.
According to HRH Prince Salan bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, "The nation’s priority is on overcoming tragedy, healing divisions and rediscovering the fabric that draws this country together; reminding the world of the very best that Bahrain is capable of as a nation once again united.”
Source: www.yallafinance.com
