Eco-friendly projects executed

One of the environmental projects which the Arriyadh Strategic Planning Program has undertaken in the Saudi capital. (AN photo)
 
RIYADH: The Arriyadh Strategic Planning Program (ASPP) has executed a number of environmental projects in the Kingdom’s capital city.
 
“The projects were endorsed eight years ago by the Higher Commission for the Development of Arriyadh (HCDA) in addition to programs being undertaken until 2209,” an Arriyadh Development Authority (ADA) spokesman told Arab News. The ADA is the executive branch of the HCDA.
 
The executive program involves a comprehensive plan for all departments working with different sectors in the city.
 
“It is a plan for development in the future. It also evaluates previous and future projects,” the spokesman said.
 
The projects that have been undertaken include the formation of a Higher Committee for the Protection of Environment in the city, implementation of the environmental protection plan which covers 48 projects that include control of pollution and waste, conservation of water and other natural resources, and environmental management.
 
Other programs include the Wadi Hanifa rehabilitation program, creation of three protected areas at Wadi Hanifa, endorsement of urban tourism planning in Thumamah, endorsement of a rehabilitation plan, execution of park and garden plans all over the city, water reprocessing and drainage, among others.
 
“One of its most outstanding achievements was the formation of the Higher Committee for the Protection of Environment in the city under the chairmanship of Riyadh Deputy Gov. Prince Sattam and 21 related departments as members,” the spokesman added.
 
After its rehabilitation, Wadi Hanifa is becoming increasingly popular among Saudis and expatriate residents as a weekend picnic spot. A heavy turnout of visitors gather on the banks of the lakes at Wadi Hanifa on weekends and other public holidays.