Neom has issued a significant update regarding The Line amidst reports of fatalities since Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 project commenced in 2016. The country is embarking on constructing a megacity, The Line, as part of this ambitious venture, estimated to cost billions. Spearheaded by Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman, Vision 2030 aims to revolutionize the economy, empower citizens, attract investors, and position Saudi Arabia as a global leader.
The Line is envisioned as a groundbreaking 170km-long and 200m wide city devoid of cars and roads, operating solely on renewable energy. Although this colossal project aims to enhance tourism, it has faced challenges. Reports emerged in February 2023 of the Al-Howeitat tribe members facing arrests and detentions for resisting land eviction in Tabuk province to make way for The Line. Additionally, a report by Alqst highlighted severe sentences handed to tribe members.
Recently, an ITV documentary revealed shocking allegations that 21,000 foreign workers had died, with 100,000 more missing since the inception of Vision 2030. The Saudi Arabian National Council for Occupational Safety and Health refuted these claims, emphasizing the nation’s low rate of work-related fatalities. Amidst controversies, Neom announced the commencement of phase one of The Line, appointing world-leading partners for city planning, design, and engineering.
Delugan Meissl Associate Architects (DMAA), Gensler, and Mott MacDonald are collaborating to deliver the core city planning for The Line’s initial phase. This strategic move sets the stage for a sophisticated design ecosystem to achieve urban objectives. Subsequently, the focus will shift to planning and designing neighborhoods within phase one, with architects slated to begin work in early 2025.
Neom’s progress on The Line signifies a pivotal milestone in Saudi Arabia’s grand Vision 2030 project. As the nation strives to transform its economy and infrastructure, challenges and controversies are inevitable. The Line’s innovative concept of a car-free, renewable energy-driven city reflects a bold vision for the future, albeit accompanied by concerns over human rights and worker safety.
With ongoing developments and partnerships shaping The Line’s trajectory, the project stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s aspirations for economic diversification and global prominence. As the world watches the evolution of this giga-project, it serves as a barometer of the country’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and societal progress amidst the complexities of modern development.
📰 Related Articles
- Global HIV Progress and Challenges: Latest Developments Revealed
- Zarco Ends Ducati’s Streak, Quartararo Challenges: MotoGP Update
- Yuma Plans Second Migrant Processing Center Amid Border Challenges
- Young Key Forwards Shine Amid AFL Round 14 Challenges
- Young Entrepreneur Faces Challenges Amid Surging Property Prices