MUSCAT: Acts of vandalism and misuse of public parks and recreational facilities are driving up maintenance costs, reducing the lifespan of public infrastructure, and depriving communities of fully enjoying these shared spaces, Muscat Municipality has warned.
The municipality stressed that protecting public property is a collective responsibility that requires stronger community awareness alongside the enforcement of laws and regulations. It noted that vandalism not only mars the appearance of public spaces but also diverts resources that could otherwise be invested in new development projects.
Eng Zakariya bin Said al Nabhani, Agricultural Engineer at the Directorate-General of Projects and Landscaping at Muscat Municipality, said the most common forms of vandalism include damaging playground equipment, writing graffiti on walls and benches, destroying lighting fixtures, cutting or damaging trees and landscaped areas, littering outside designated bins, and misusing public facilities in ways that shorten their operational life.
He said such practices increase spending on repairs, maintenance and replacement works, placing additional pressure on the municipality's financial and human resources.
"These actions undermine the sustainability of public facilities and the quality of services they provide, while preventing visitors from fully benefiting from them until repairs are completed," he said.
Al Nabhani noted that the municipality continues to promote a culture of protecting public property through awareness campaigns, routine maintenance, intensified inspection drives, information signage, surveillance systems in selected locations, and by encouraging residents to report acts of vandalism.
"These facilities belong to everyone, and preserving them is a shared responsibility that ensures they remain available for future generations," he added.
Asmahan bint Mohammed al Shukaili, Awareness Specialist at Muscat Municipality, said parks and recreational spaces are essential to improving quality of life, promoting physical and mental well-being, preserving environmental balance, and enhancing the beauty of cities and neighbourhoods.
She said the municipality has placed significant emphasis on developing and maintaining these facilities as part of its vision for a sustainable urban environment. However, recurring vandalism highlights the need to strengthen public awareness and community engagement to reduce damage and maintenance costs.
Among its initiatives, the municipality has partnered with the Ministry of Education to conduct awareness sessions in schools across Muscat Governorate for Cycle One and Cycle Two students. The programmes use interactive discussions and activities to explain the causes and consequences of vandalism and encourage respect for public property.
Al Shukaili also highlighted the municipality's 'Little Observer' programme, which takes primary school students on field visits to parks and recreational areas, allowing them to identify acts of vandalism, understand their impact, and suggest practical solutions.
She added that awareness campaigns also continue through social media, urging families to encourage children to use public facilities responsibly and help preserve playgrounds, benches, outdoor fitness equipment, trees, flowers and green spaces for the benefit of the entire community.
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