Environmental security forces apprehend violators of grazing and fire-lighting regulations in Riyadh's nature reserves
As part of ongoing field efforts to protect the natural resources of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Special Forces for Environmental Security announced the implementation of new operations targeting violators of environmental regulations in the Riyadh and Madinah regions, within a comprehensive strategy aimed at preserving vegetation cover and preventing practices harmful to wildlife.
Details of enforcement of grazing and fire-starting violations
The Special Forces for Environmental Security apprehended a citizen for violating environmental regulations by grazing seven camels in prohibited areas within the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve. The relevant authorities have initiated legal proceedings against the violator. The forces clarified that the penalty for grazing camels in prohibited areas is a fine of 500 riyals per camel, intended to deter encroachments on protected areas.
In a related incident, and in a separate operation reflecting the security forces' vigilance in protecting natural parks, another citizen was apprehended in the Tuwaiq Reserve for violating instructions and guidelines regarding the preservation of vegetation. He had started a fire in an unauthorized area. The forces emphasized that starting fires in undesignated areas within forests and national parks is a serious offense punishable by a fine of up to 3,000 riyals.
National context and the importance of royal reserves
These seizures come within the context of a broad national movement in Saudi Arabia since the launch of Vision 2030, which has given unprecedented attention to environmental protection. Royal reserves, such as the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Reserve and the Tuwaiq Reserve, have been established by royal decrees aimed at restoring wildlife and protecting vegetation from desertification and overgrazing. These reserves are a cornerstone of the "Green Saudi Arabia" initiative, which seeks to increase protected areas to more than 30% of the Kingdom's land area.
Environmental and economic impact of compliance with regulations
Adherence to the environmental system and its implementing regulations is not merely a legal procedure, but an urgent necessity to ensure the sustainability of natural resources for future generations. Preventing overgrazing contributes to the restoration of desert plant biodiversity, reducing dust storms and improving air quality. Furthermore, prohibiting indiscriminate fires protects ancient trees and vegetation from fires that could devastate vast and irreparable areas, thus enhancing the Kingdom's position as a destination for sustainable ecotourism.
Reporting channels and social responsibility
The Special Forces for Environmental Security emphasized the vital role of the community in protecting the environment, urging everyone to report any instances of environmental or wildlife violations. They explained that reports can be made by calling 911 in the Makkah, Madinah, Riyadh, and Eastern regions, and by calling 999 or 996 in the rest of the Kingdom. They affirmed that all reports are treated with complete confidentiality and that the reporter bears no responsibility whatsoever.
