Page 58 - Bahrain Gov Annual Reports (III)_Neat

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(b) A low tension 400 volts 3/phase overhead line was run from the Gudhaibia substation
to the premises of Messrs. Cable and Wireless Limited at Hoorah. This feeder is to meet the new
requirements of Messrs. Cable and Wireless Limited, approximately 15 KW.
Air Conditioning. 43 air conditioning units were in operation during the year in public
and private buildings. Air conditioning was again very much appreciated during the hot season,
and additional machines were ordered by local consumers.
Continuity of Supply. The electricity undertaking has been in operation since May 1930
and the failure of supply due to Power House faults has been practically nil. There has been no
failure of main underground distribution feeders or of substation equipment.
Financial Position. After meeting all charges a surplus of Rs. 48,761-13-1 was shown for
the year 1361. On the original allocations and depreciation rates, this surplus would be approximately
Rs. 28,760. As the old rates may possibly have to be reverted to, it is advisable to put the surplus
to “ Operating Reserve.”
Electricity Charges. In my opinion, no further reduction in the electricity charges can
be made at present, as very few extra consumers can be expected during 1362. Notwithstanding
the present world situation and the general increase in prices, the electricity charges were not increased
during 1361.
Prospects for 1362. It is difficult to forecast what will happen in 1362, but if the
war situation remains as it is now, very little surplus may be expected.
Telephones.
The number of subscribers connected to date is 93. The proposed laying of underground
mains to assist communication was not carried out, due to difficulty in obtaining material. The
present overhead system is working as satisfactorily as can be expected in the very humid atmosphere
of Bahrain. The Department is self-supporting. A new 50 line switchboard has been ordered, to
allow for the natural expansion of the system. Owing to transport difficulties this item is not expected
to arrive for at least six months.
Transport Department.
The Government maintenance garage carried out the repairing and servicing of all
Government vehicles (29) including those of the Defence Forces and the Royal Air Force.

Considerable difficulty is being experienced in repairing and servicing the vehicles due to the
lack of spare parts and tyres. Old tyres are being patched and vulcanised as far as possible.
Fire Section.
The Government Fire Engine extinguished 19 fires during the year 1361—No major outbreaks
occurred.
14 suction pits fed from artesian wells, have been placed at suitable points throughout the town
of Muharraq. Owing to the narrow streets it is not possible to construct as many as could be desired.
Traffic Section.
The State Engineer’s Department continued to carry out the registration of all motor vehicles
in the State (554) and the testing of brakes, lights, speed, etc. (in accordance with the Bahrain
Government Motor Vehicles Proclamation of 1357). The licensing and relicensing of all drivers was
also carried out by this department, 90 drivers being examined during 1361, out of which 70 passed.
The number of licenses issued during the year 1361 was 144.
Baffles are still being fitted to the carburretors of all vehicles plying for hire to limit the speed
to 30/33 miles per hour. Although the standard of driving has improved, this is still a necessity.
All public vehicles were personally inspected by the State Engineer. In a number of cases the standard
black-out of headlamps has been somewhat modified, as certain vehicles, particularly buses and taxis,
would be dangerous to drive, with so little road illumination.