In spite of not meeting local municipality requirements — such as proper street lighting, pavements, sewage networks and asphalted roads — the two plots of land have been sold, said informed sources. The sources said the two plots include that of Jawharat Hussam (30,000 square meters) and Durat Hussam (20,000 square meters).
They add that a businessman has started work on a third plot situated in the valley of Abu Gabour.
The director of the Civil Defense in the province has received a complaint from an unnamed member of the public about the sale.
The complainant has asked for the implementation of a Cabinet decision (No. 151 issued on 4/5/1428) ordering the demolition of all buildings situated in flood paths.
A source at the Civil Defense, who did not want to be identified, said the governorate and municipality have been informed. “Informing the authorities concerned as a precautionary measure is all that we can do at the moment,” he said, adding that Durat Hussam is to the east of Khamis Mushayt and extends over 20 water passes and water collection points.
“In the event of heavy rain, we end up rescuing residents and helping to stop water from entering homes,” he added.
However, Khamis Mushayt Gov. Saeed bin Abdul Aziz bin Mushayat said the governorate has not received any complaints so far. “If true, this will be a catastrophe,” he said, holding the municipality responsible for any violation. He added that construction licenses are granted by a joint committee from the governorate and the municipality once all necessary checks are carried out and municipality requirements are met.
Chairman of the Municipality Abdullah Al-Zahrani said the two plots of land are not situated in a flood plain and that there are no risks to residents on the long run. He added that the municipality has asked the notary public not to grant ownership deeds for land situated in flood plains. “The problem of land falling in a flood plain is not limited to Khamis Mushayt but a common one across the Kingdom,” he said.
