MAKKAH — Security specialists and academics claimed that slums account for more than a quarter of Makkah city. These slums consist of 60 neighborhoods and occupy an area of 38 square kilometers. A forum on the role and views of government bodies in dealing with and developing slums in Makkah was launched under the support of Makkah Mayor Dr. Osama Al-Bar. He said development has begun in seven neighborhoods parallel to King Abdulaziz Road in accordance with the directives of the Emir of Makkah Province Khaled Al-Faisal. The General Supervisor of the Prince Khaled Al-Faisal Chair for the Development of Slum Areas in Makkah, Dr. Amjad Maghrabi, presented a paper on the work of the chair. He pointed out that the goal of the forum was to acquaint local authorities with the many problems and challenges posed by these slums. The forum will also present the needs of these slums and the participation of bodies in development efforts. Dr. Sami Barhameen, secretary general of the Makkah Development Authority, said slums are one of the most important challenges governments all over the world face. Assistant Makkah police chief Mansour Al-Wafi said these slums are inhabited by illegal residents who have contributed to an increase in crime. The Saudi Electricity Company director for Makkah Waleed Al-Ghamdi said the company faces difficulties in reaching these areas due to the narrow streets. Unplanned buildings make it difficult to provide suitable power to these slums. Dr. Abdullah Bin Sirajuldin of Al-Balad Al-Ameen Company for Development said the large increase in property prices coupled with real estate owners rejecting compensation for properties that were to make way for government projects have contributed to the problem. The forum recommended that building owners should be involved in the development process to ensure stability and the preservation of their rights. All residents should be treated equally despite their nationalities, especially those who have lived in Makkah for years, said the forum. Alternative affordable housing should be available for residents of these slums, delegates said. Property ownership deeds should be issued to preserve the rights of the owners, the forum recommended. Such deeds will ensure that the development of these slums will not lead to the creation of other slums, it said. Social and economic development of the slums as well as their infrastructure and security should happen together. These recommendations will be submitted to Makkah Emir Prince Khaled.
