Jeddah Municipal Authority is currently involved in a major city improvement project, according to Arab News daily. The project includes the removal of water from flooded streets due to rainfall within 24 hours, alleviation of other water sewage and supply problems, a major reduction of automobile congestion, the creation of various public parks, as well as the easing of licensing procedures for investors in Jeddah. Implementation of these measures is expected to begin in the coming six months.
Improper planning has been attributed to current poor conditions in certain parts of the city. According to Jeddah’s mayor Abdallha Yahya Al-Muallami, nearly 44 older and neglected city districts will be affected by the campaign.
Al-Muallami also disclosed plans to establish three new beaches at the cost of 60 million Saudi riyals ($16 million). In addition, a 67,000 square meter international theme park, complete with pavilions representing different Arab countries will also be established.
The projected improvements are top priority for Al-Muallami, who stresses the city’s importance as an economic hub and tourist destination. Over 40 of the nation’s top 100 firms are located in Jeddah, while 60 percent of Saudi imports pass through Jeddah’s Islamic Port, says the mayor.
In addition, hundreds of thousands of tourists arrive in Jeddah yearly, as it is considered a gateway to Mekkah and Medinah, and is well equipped with tourist facilities. Jeddah accounts for 6.8 percent of the Kingdom’s land area, and has en estimated population of 2.5 million. —(MENA Report)
© 2001 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
