Parking clamp

By RASHA AL QAHTANI
TRUCKS and buses could be banned from parking in parts of Hoora, following complaints that there is nowhere left for residents to park.
The problem is being caused by drivers who take their company lorries and buses home and park them in the street overnight, says a councillor for the area.
They take up several parking spaces each, leaving no room for other residents, says Manama Municipal Council member Abdulaziz Ahmed Mohammed Al Khaja.
He said the problem of parked trucks and buses was increasing in Hoora and its surrounding areas, prompting action by officials.
One of the worst-hit areas is Block 318, off Old Palace Road, behind the Ahmed Al Umran Secondary Boys School.
The trucks and buses involved range from four to 16-wheelers, said Mr Al Khaja.
"Trucks and buses which are using these car spaces take up to about three provided car spaces and in some cases four," he said.
"There are many complaints from residents in the area about these vehicles, which cause a big problem between them and the owners of the big vehicles."
Mr Al Khaja said he would meet other members in the municipal council to find a solution, to prevent these big vehicles from parking in the area.
"The council has spoken about this problem previously but they are looking into it seriously now, as it is causing a serious problem to residents," he said.
"Once the decision is agreed, signs will be put up in the area which show that such vehicles are prevented from parking in the area."
The General Directorate of Traffic will deal with violators in the area, said Mr Al Khaja.
"Offenders should and will be charged for violations," he said.
"We are trying to have cleaner streets and neighbourhoods and big trucks and vehicles are things we don't want to see, so wherever we find these big vehicles, the owner or the company responsible will be fined," he said.
"Sixty per cent of vehicles parked in that area are trucks and buses, which take up a lot of space and leave residents in the area to suffer.
"These vehicles cause a lot of traffic congestion and complaints arise from residents and families living in the area.
"Companies responsible should provide minibuses to transport their employees to and from their homes, which will solve the problem caused by these vehicles." Mr Al Khaja said councillors would meet in two weeks to discuss the problem.