Ban on collection of metal scrap

MUSCAT, MARCH 6

The office of the Minister of State and Governor of Muscat Governorate, banned collection and dealing of scrap metal unless after obtaining a license.

As per the new regulations, scrap metal collectors and dealers should practice the activity within the industrial areas in Muscat Governorate after obtaining license from the relevant authority.

Scrap metal collectors and dealers are not permitted to concede the license to another person nor are they allowed to practice the activity outside the designated area or in residential quarters.

The regulations also criminalise dealing in scrap metal coming from unknown sources.

The decision is taken in view of recurring and persistent complaints regarding scrap collecting vehicles and to address public concerns.

Sayyid Saud bin Hilal al Busaidy, Minister of State and Governor of Muscat, issued a ministerial decision regulating the practice of scrap collection and handling activity in the governorate.

Pollution

Previously, scrap collecting vehicles used to ply in various residential neighbourhoods in most governorates of the Sultanate of Oman, a phenomenon which has brought lot of problems to the residents due to the noise made by these vehicles.

In addition to this, the environmental pollution of these vehicles, forced many citizens and residents to complain to the authorities concerned regarding these vehicles and sought to find a solution to this issue. This has resulted in the issuance of a regulation regulating the practice of scrap collection and handling activity in Muscat Governorate. The scrap collecting and handling licenses will be cancelled in the event of a repeat violation of vehicle movement in residential neighbourhoods and a fine of RO 500 for those who practice the activity without a license. Also, a fine of RO 300 will be imposed on those who engage in the activity with an expired license.

The scrap includes any pieces from which iron, copper or other materials are extracted and the activity must be done in the industrial areas in the governorate.

It is notable that the decision was based on the Royal Decree No 101/2020 issuing the system of governorates and municipal affairs and on the local order No 1/2009 regulating the practice of scrap collection and handling activity in the Governorate of Muscat and the approval of the Ministry of Finance.

The regulation noted that one of the most important requirements is to ensure that all health and technical requirements are met for this job. The validity period of the licence shall be for one year, and this may be renewed or extended.

One of its most important national priorities is to achieve a sustainable environment, and to develop sustainable governorates and cities to create atmosphere suitable for environmentally and socially safe living.

However, the continuation of such practices prevents achieving the desired results in comprehensive sustainable development and promoting social and economic prosperity. The illegal activities of these vehicles in residential neighbourhoods cause environmental and economic damages. These activities also raise security concerns.