Muscat Municipality Bans Dune Bashing in Bausher

Muscat Municipality has banned dune bashing activities in the Bausher area.

It has put up a signboard stating that the land is its property, strictly prohibiting entry while warning the public of possible prosecution in case of non-compliance.

The area is popular with off roaders who ‘dune bash’ in their private vehicles or with rented quads/buggies.

A rent-a-quad operator said, “I have the necessary permits from the municipality to operate in this area. This decision effectively sweeps the rug from under our feet. We have made significant investments in a fleet of quads and buggies of all sizes. We have also rented an office in the area.

We hope a compromise can be worked out.”

In a statement, Muscat Municipality said, “There have been pictures going around the social media about a municipality warning board at a location in Bausher sands. It prohibits trespassing and holding any activities at that location.

“The municipality respects the views that have been going around. Firstly, it must be notified that the sign was put up to maintain the aspects of safety, the guidelines of which were prepared by a team of specialists. The set location is near buildings that will see expansions, in addition to a number of excavation sites. That is why the municipality has put up the warning signboard.”

Municipality has also said that the place is also not suitable for the activities that are being held there due to the nature of the area and is a violation of the safety regulations. “In addition, the area surrounding Bausher sand dunes has become a residential zone and the activities that are being held there are considered to be a source of disturbance,” it said.

Muscat Municipality has said that it is coordinating with decision makers in order to prepare an investment plan to make the best use of this land that will benefit the public, taking into account its location. “The plan will preserve the identity of the dunes by building a natural park, in addition to developing areas for sports activities suitable for people of all ages. A number of recreational and tourism activities will be added to the area.”