Meeting reviews development projects in Al Sharqiyah South

Sur: The Municipal Council of South Al Sharqiyah South Governorate convened its 10th meeting of 2024, chaired by Dr Yahya bin Badr al Maawali, Governor of Al Sharqiyah South and Chairman of the Council, and focused on topics related to development projects, environmental initiatives, and sustainable urban planning. The council reviewed the progress of several ongoing projects aimed at improving infrastructure and services in the governorate, including the proposal to establish a dedicated market for small businesses and artisans in the Wilayat of Sur. Another major project discussed was the extension of Al Ashkharah Park in Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, designed to enhance recreational and tourism facilities. The meeting hosted officials from the General Directorate of Housing and Urban Planning, who presented an overview of residential plans in the Wilayat — discussions centered on challenges such as excavations, landfills, and the provision of essential services. The council emphasised the importance of addressing these issues to ensure sustainable urban development that meets the needs of the growing population. The council also welcomed a presentation by Amlak Resources on their Amlak Green Initiative in Al Ashkharah, which is focused on improving environmental quality and promoting sustainability, involving expanding green spaces and planting native trees such as coconut, sidr, and ghaf. The project is a collaborative effort involving the governorate, government entities, and private partners, showcasing a strong commitment to environmental preservation. The Ministry of Energy and Minerals (MoEM) presented its digital platform, “Taqa,” which aims to enhance the quality of services, attract investments, and improve transparency through automation. The platform’s 2024 achievements include offering tenders for mining sites to local and international investors, streamlining the issuance of mining licenses, and enabling exploration permits. Future enhancements planned for 2025 were also discussed, aiming to further digitise the sector and support economic growth. The council’s Health and Environmental Affairs Committee proposed establishing a dedicated authority to oversee and manage coastal areas within the governorate. This initiative aims to ensure the sustainable use of beaches, protect marine ecosystems, and develop facilities that support tourism and environmental preservation. The proposal also outlined the authority’s roles, including planning coastal protection projects, assessing risks, and implementing solutions aligned with Oman Vision 2040. The council reviewed various legal and administrative issues, including a report from the Legal Affairs Committee addressing violations by mobile food trucks and cafés. The council emphasised the importance of regulating these businesses to balance economic opportunities with compliance with municipal laws. The council examined responses from government entities, including the Directorate General of Housing and Urban Planning, regarding land allocations for health centers and hospitals across the governorate. Recommendations from the Local Coordination Committee were also reviewed, highlighting collaborative efforts to enhance service delivery.