Environmental violations detected in the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Reserve
The Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve Development Authority, represented by its environmental monitoring teams, announced the detection and enforcement of several environmental violations within the reserve's boundaries, specifically in the Rawdat Khuraim area. These efforts are part of the Authority's ongoing campaigns to preserve natural resources and ensure compliance with environmental regulations in force in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Details of observed violations
The intensive inspection tours revealed (21) various violations, which were divided into two main categories:
- Camping violations: (12) violations were recorded related to unauthorized camping, which is considered an encroachment on areas designated for the rehabilitation of vegetation cover and negatively affects the beauty and nature of the place.
- Damage to soil and vegetation: (9) other violations were recorded, which consisted of starting fires in places not designated for them, and vehicles entering protected wild meadows and gardens, causing "trampling of plants" and destruction of the surface layer of soil.
Environmental and geographical importance of the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Reserve
These measures are of particular importance given the strategic and environmental significance of the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve. Located northeast of Riyadh, the reserve encompasses Rawdat Khuraim, one of the most important and renowned green spaces in Najd. Historically, these areas have served as a haven for wildlife and a natural park for royalty and citizens alike, making their preservation a national and historical responsibility.
The entry of vehicles into meadows and valleys not only damages annual plants but also leads to soil compaction, preventing seed germination in future seasons and exacerbating desertification. Furthermore, setting fires directly on the ground kills microorganisms in the soil and mars the landscape.
Integration with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the Saudi Green Initiative
The Reserve Development Authority does not operate in isolation from the general directions of the state. Rather, these seizures come in line with the objectives of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 Saudi Green Initiative , which aims to protect 30% of the Kingdom’s land and sea area and plant 10 billion trees.
The authority explained that it is working in close coordination with security and relevant agencies to strictly enforce the executive regulations of the environmental system. It emphasized that protecting biodiversity in the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve and the King Khalid Royal Reserve is a top priority to ensure the sustainability of these resources for future generations.
Applying the legal penalties
The authority emphasized that the prescribed penalties will be applied to all violators without leniency. It urged picnickers and desert enthusiasts to adhere to environmental regulations, obtain the necessary camping permits, and use designated vehicle routes, stressing that community awareness is the first line of defense in protecting the Kingdom's environment.
