He claimed that the mayoralty would work to develop urban areas, municipal squares, parks and underdeveloped areas in the city. “This requires a lot of work,” he added.

Abu Ras, who was appointed mayor last month, said Jeddah required drastic solutions for its problems, adding that it would take time. “Let me have the opportunity to solve these problems,” he added.

Addressing a meeting of the Jeddah Municipal Council, he also pointed out that a plan for building low-cost housing in Jeddah was ready. “We are waiting for land allocation to implement the project.”

The mayor said his priority was to complete the strategic plan for Jeddah, started by his predecessor Adel Fakieh who was recently appointed minister of labor.

Abu Ras said contracts for the Corniche project would be offered for tender in November, adding that SR210 million has been allocated for the recreation scheme.

“We have readied eight pumps to remove rainwater from roads and streets,” he said, adding that his department required SR50 million to repair rainwater pathways destroyed by the devastating floods last November.

The municipal council members, meanwhile, urged the mayor to adopt an emergency plan to deal with the rainy season and possible flooding.