New infrastructure projects worth BD110 million ($291.7 million) are in the pipeline in Bahrain, said a senior government official, adding that tenders for more than 100 projects are due to be issued shortly.

They include 48 tenders for roads worth BD56 million, 38 for sanitation projects worth BD46 million and 18 for construction projects worth BD7 million, said Works Minister Essam Khalaf

The planned spending on public infrastructure development follows an outlay of more than BD112 million on similar schemes last year.

'While 81 contracts have been awarded till December-end, another 104 are in the tendering process,' he said.

The ministry issued 22 tenders for roads worth BD56 million last year, 37 for sanitation projects worth BD43 million and 22 worth BD13 million in the construction sector.

'All projects have been designed keeping in mind the needs of the people and their safety,' Khalaf said.

He hoped new investment in infrastructure would help promote trade and attract investment.

'These projects are testimony to the government's intention to invest heavily in infrastructure projects to provide a better life for all,' he added.

Ministry roads adviser Abdul Nabi Abdulla Al Sabah previously told the GDN that a nationwide plan was underway to renovate, revamp and expand key junctions and build new roads to connect all parts of Bahrain.

Projects being planned include an interchange on Shaikh Khalifa bin Salman Highway and a corridor connecting the upcoming Northern Town.

Al Sabah said another major project to connect the upcoming Mina Salman Interchange with North Manama Causeway was under construction.

There are also plans for a North Manama Ring Road and Juffair Orbital Ring Road, he added. – TradeArabia News Service