Improving the urban landscape: 170 informal settlements removed in Al-Kharj

A large-scale monitoring campaign to promote environmental sustainability in Al-Kharj

In a decisive step reflecting the government's commitment to achieving sustainable development, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture, represented by its Riyadh branch, conducted a large-scale field inspection campaign in Al-Kharj Governorate. These intensive efforts resulted in the removal of 170 sites that detracted from the city's appearance, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance environmental sustainability and improve the quality of life for both citizens and residents.

Details of field operations and the elimination of visual pollution

The ministry explained that the field operations directly targeted the strict elimination of all forms of visual and environmental pollution in the governorate. The inspection teams, in close cooperation and coordination with relevant government and security agencies, successfully identified and removed 90 illegally constructed enclosures, in addition to removing 80 makeshift stalls that were illegally occupying public land and contributing to the defacement of the urban landscape and the accumulation of waste.

General context and connection to the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030

This monitoring campaign is an extension of comprehensive national efforts aligned with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, specifically the Quality of Life Program. Historically, Saudi cities have witnessed rapid demographic and urban growth over the past decades, leading to some haphazard development on the outskirts of cities and governorates. With the recent institutional transformation, addressing these accumulated issues has become a top priority. Addressing visual pollution is no longer merely a cosmetic measure; it is an environmental and economic necessity that contributes to attracting investments and providing a healthy and safe environment for society.

Expected impact at the local and regional levels

Locally, these removals in Al-Kharj Governorate contribute to freeing up public lands and reducing encroachments that could lead to the spread of disease or the accumulation of waste in unregulated yards. Furthermore, regulating markets and removing unlicensed stalls ensures consumer protection and supports legitimate businesses. Regionally, the success of these campaigns in the Riyadh region enhances the capital and its governorates' standing as a leading model in sustainable urban management and the strict application of environmental regulations, which positively impacts the Kingdom's international environmental ranking.

Towards a clean, safe and sustainable environment

The impact of these measures extends beyond aesthetics to include the protection of natural environmental resources. Random encroachments are often accompanied by practices that harm soil and water resources. Therefore, the relevant department at the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture affirmed that this initiative is part of its ongoing efforts to create a "clean and safe environment." This approach ensures the protection of the natural resources of the governorate's residents from any distortions or damage that could hinder the comprehensive and sustainable development sought by the wise leadership.