Ministries, government organisations, Bahrain's embassies abroad and national clubs, societies and schools are organising colourful events to mark the occasion of the kingdom's 42nd National Day celebrations.

The cabinet expressed its congratulations to His Majesty King Hamad, HRH the Crown Prince and to the people of Bahrain on the occasion of Bahrain's National and Accession Day; in memory of the establishment of modern Bahrain in the era of the founder Ahmed Al Fateh as an Arabic and Islamic entity in 1783; the 42nd anniversary of joining the UN as a member state; and the 14th anniversary of His Majesty's accession to the throne.

Patriotism is in the air in the kingdom with a sea of red and white being witnessed on cars, motorcycles, buildings and parks, as it is the colour worn and adorned by citizens and residents as they enjoy Bahrain's traditional life, said a report in the Gulf Daily News (GDN), our sister publication.

Traffic police will be out in force during the celebrations, General Directorate of Traffic General Director Shaikh Nasser bin Abdulrahman Al Khalifa said.

Arrangements have been made to ensure smooth traffic flow and prevent congestion, he added.

Authorities have stationed mobile patrols on all main streets and roads leading to and from celebration venues to curb violations, such as wrong parking on pavements or on 'No Parking' zones, he stressed.

He also urged citizens and residents attending celebrations to take extra safety precautions and arrive in time and to refrain from hurriedly exiting the location.

Meanwhile, celebrations continued at Bahrain International Circuit.

Octic International, the passport and visa service centre for Indians, said it will remain closed today and tomorrow.

Riffa Youth Centre is holding a special event at Al Enma'a Mall, East Riffa, today at 5pm.

Celebrations will include national songs, poems about love for Bahrain and various competitions. - TradeArabia News Service