AI trial approved in Manama public spaces to enhance visitor experience
A trial run to bring artificial intelligence into one of Manama's public parks has been cleared by the Capital Trustees Board in a move aimed at gathering detailed information on how people use these spaces.
The proposal came from Engineer Saleh Taher Tarradah, Chairman of the Board. 'We want reliable data to guide our decisions, who visits the parks, when, how often, and what they do. That will help us make better choices when it comes to services, design, and upkeep,' he told the board.
The pilot will draw on cameras, sensors and software to count visitors, track where they go, and estimate age and gender, all without recording names or personal data.
It may also tap into mobile signals and wireless networks to build a picture of crowd sizes and popular spots, while respecting Bahrain's privacy laws.
Steady numbers
Parks across Bahrain draw steady numbers throughout the year. According to the board's Services and Public Facilities Committee, there are over 200 sites, including walkways and beaches, across the country.
The Capital Governorate alone has 51, with a combined area of 377,000 square metres.
These green spaces have seen over BD12 million spent on building works in the capital, with between five and 10 per cent of that figure usually needed later for upkeep.
Disabilities
The Ministry of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture continues to add walking paths, public toilets, shaded rest spots and play areas, and has placed some focus on access for those with disabilities.
The idea is to run the AI system in one park to begin with. If the tools work as intended, the board may expand the scheme to other sites.
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