People of Muscat welcomed the decision of the Ministry of Housing to protect the scenic sand dunes of Bausher and keep them intact. The ministry announced that the decision was being taking into account and the view that more open natural breathing needed to be preserved in the governorate of Muscat.

Taken from Oman Tribune, as they have interviewed residents of Muscat about this decision and this is some of what they came up with:

Hamid Al Ahmadi, a marketing executive, said: “We were concerned when we saw some activities in the sands of Bausher which could lead to losing this open space. The areas around it are now densely populated and we needed an open space.”

Manal Al Kindi, a housewife said: “Many times, I take my children around some of these sand dunes to give them the open space to enjoy. I live in a nearby area and these sand dunes surroundings attract me and my family. I thank the ministry for considering the importance of these sand dunes in Bausher.”

Shihab Ahmad, a computer engineer, said: “We cannot afford losing such an open space inside a city which is growing rapidly. I am happy that the Ministry of Housing took the importance of the sand dunes into consideration. The ministry’s decision reflected that it respected the public interest and aspirations.”

Saud Azmi, a taxi driver, said: “Muscat is different from any other city in the region and outside. These open spaces like the sand dunes of Bausher make it different from other cities. We do not want to lose it. On the one hand, these sand dunes of Bausher make the area beautiful and on the other give the residents of Bausher a breathing space. The ministry’s decision was a welcome step. We do not want concrete jungle around us.”

The government has made the correct choice to halt construction activity. As part of our natural heritage these dunes should be unspoiled and preserved.