Work on the Muharraq Central Market in Bahrain has started following the evacuation of tenants, a report said, adding that the 9,800-sq-m project is expected to be completed by the end of next year.

The new-look central market to be set up at an investment of BD5 million ($13.2 million) will boast of all necessary services and facilities, including air-conditioning, exits and car parks, reported the BNA citing Yussef bin Ibrahim Al Ghatam, the acting director-general of the Muharraq Governorate.

Al Ghatam was speaking after inspecting the ongoing work at Muharraq Central Market.

He pointed out that the work was progressing well and the contracting company had pledged to complete the project by the end of next year.

The company will also ensure that it meets the requirements set by the Muharraq Municipality to maintain the interests of vendors and merchants, said the report.

He said based on the close follow-up of the Works, Municipalities Affairs and Urban Planning Minister Essam bin Abdulla Khalaf, the Muharraq Municipality had made all necessary arrangements to help vendors and traders evacuate the market.

Al Ghatam pointed out that the developing company has set up a temporary market for traders at an investment of BD440,000 ($1.16 million), it added.