Environmental violations detected in Riyadh: grazing and fires in protected areas
As part of ongoing efforts to protect natural resources and ensure environmental sustainability in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Special Forces for Environmental Security announced the implementation of intensive field campaigns in the Riyadh region, which resulted in the arrest of a number of violators of the environmental system and the executive regulations related to grazing, logging and the preservation of vegetation cover.
Details of enforcement of overgrazing regulations
Field patrols of the Special Forces for Environmental Security apprehended a citizen for violating environmental regulations by grazing twelve camels in prohibited areas within the Imam Abdulaziz bin Mohammed Royal Reserve . The necessary legal procedures were immediately applied to the violator upon his apprehension. In this context, the forces emphasized that regulations clearly stipulate a fine of 500 riyals per camel for grazing in prohibited areas, in order to curb overgrazing, which threatens plant diversity and contributes to desertification.
Violations of starting fires and tampering with vegetation
In another incident reflecting the firm enforcement of regulations, authorities apprehended a citizen who violated environmental guidelines by starting a fire in an unauthorized area within the Tuwaiq Nature Reserve . The relevant authorities explained that such practices pose a significant threat to vegetation and could cause fires that damage the natural environment. They emphasized that the penalty for starting fires in forests or national parks outside designated areas is a fine of up to 3,000 riyals.
Protecting meadows and gardens from being run over by vehicles
Continuing environmental monitoring efforts, a citizen was apprehended for violating regulations by driving his vehicle into the meadows and natural areas of the King Abdulaziz Royal Reserve . Such practices are among the most significant causes of soil degradation and the destruction of dormant seeds, hindering the growth of seasonal plants. Authorities indicated that the penalty for driving vehicles into protected meadows and natural areas is up to 2,000 riyals.
The context of environmental protection and the Kingdom's Vision 2030
These measures are consistent with the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and the "Green Saudi Arabia" initiative, which places great emphasis on protecting and developing protected areas. These strict measures aim to raise public awareness of the importance of preserving plant and animal life and preventing harmful practices that have depleted the environment for decades. Royal reserves serve as natural incubators that contribute to restoring ecological balance and promoting sustainable ecotourism, making adherence to regulations a national duty for every individual.
Official reporting channels
The Special Forces for Environmental Security reiterated their call to all citizens and residents to contribute to environmental protection by reporting any instances of damage to vegetation or wildlife. 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. The forces emphasized that all reports are treated with the utmost confidentiality.
