MUSCAT: Muscat Municipality has warned that abandoned houses in the capital are increasingly becoming hotspots for hazardous and unhealthy practices, which pose significant risks to public health and the city’s overall aesthetics. Among the most concerning issues are the illegal slaughtering of animals, improper storage of perishable goods, and the accumulation of waste and debris within these neglected properties. These activities not only compromise food safety but also create environments that attract pests and insects, escalating the likelihood of disease outbreaks in nearby neighborhoods.
The Municipality emphasized that these practices disrupt the cleanliness and safety standards the city aims to maintain, with unlicensed slaughtering and unsanitary storage conditions ranking among the most dangerous violations. Such actions can lead to contamination and spread of harmful bacteria, creating severe health risks for residents. Waste accumulation, on the other hand, can emit foul odors and serve as breeding grounds for rodents, further amplifying public health threats. The Municipality has reiterated that addressing these challenges requires swift action to mitigate potential consequences before they spiral out of control.
Efforts to combat these violations have already been initiated, including inspection campaigns and legal measures against offenders found utilizing abandoned houses for illegal activities. However, authorities stress that enforcement alone cannot eliminate the problem. Continuous community vigilance and prompt reporting of such practices are critical in ensuring that the city remains safe, hygienic, and free from threats that endanger both health and environmental standards. The Municipality continues to engage with residents through awareness programs to strengthen collective responsibility in maintaining urban integrity.
In its statement, Muscat Municipality underscored that safeguarding public health and preserving the city’s beauty is a shared responsibility between the government and residents. While the authority pledges to intensify monitoring and take legal action against violators, it has called upon the public to report any suspicious activities occurring in abandoned properties. The collaboration between citizens and municipal authorities is essential for preventing harmful practices that could tarnish Muscat’s image and compromise its commitment to creating a healthy, sustainable living environment for all.
