Saudi plan aims to develop cities, combat road deaths

JEDDAH: A new strategic plan for Saudi Arabia seeks to enhance the quality of life for people in cities, by supporting ongoing efforts to fight a number of issues. By 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to have 3 cities in the top-ranked 100 cities in the world.
A new vision for Saudi Arabia was unveiled Monday that sets out goals for the next decade and a half. Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who is spearheading the vision 2030 project, believes the plan will improve many facets of life in the country.
Even with the turmoil in the region, Saudi cities are among the safest in the world with annual crime rates that are less than 0.8 per 100,000 people, far below the international rate of 7.6, the plan states.
Despite this, road accidents remain the number one killer in Saudi Arabia with 20 deaths every day, and because of this serious issue the vision document confirms its commitment to reducing “traffic accidents and minimize their tragic consequences.”
There is also an emphasis on dealing with drugs abuse in cities.
The plan also sets goals to “continue to enhance the quality of life for all and meet the needs and requirements of our citizens, we will continue to ensure high quality services such as water, electricity, public transport and roads are properly provided.”
There is also a promise to further develop open and landscaped areas for recreational purposes.