Duqm – The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) has assigned a project to design and develop the first phase of beautification, afforestation and landscaping works in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) estimated to cost over RO2.3mn.

Yahya bin Khamis al Zadjali, in charge of managing operations at SEZAD, stressed that the project reflects OPAZ’s keenness to improve urban lifestyle by increasing greenery in the zone, providing the best infrastructure possible and maintaining environmental balance.

The first phase of beautification and landscaping works in Duqm includes different sites on Sultan Qaboos Street over a stretch of 16km, three roundabouts, pavements of Airport Street covering 4.5km, Al Salamah Roundabout, and the service road in the exhibition area covering 4km.

The project includes two parks in the commercial district (Rock Garden District and Al Saada park), construction of several public facilities – green spaces for children’s activities and family gatherings, and facilities for various sports, cultural and social activities. These will be irrigated by a modern system that is part of the development project.

“The current green areas in SEZAD cover about 26,000sqm. The new projects will add 35,000sqm. Post completion, the total green cover will be more than 60,000sqm, including over 5,000 trees of species adaptable to Duqm’s climate,” Zadjali said.

He added that OPAZ accords special attention to works related to developing the masterplan of SEZAD. Such works are aimed to increase green cover, afforestation and landscaping. In view of the environmental importance of green cover, OPAZ introduced several projects and initiatives earlier, including the ‘Plant a Tree’ initiative focused on beautification works in some areas. This makes the zone a model for integrated economic cities that mix industrial, commercial, tourism and social projects with high priority to environmental and health aspects, as well as providing various services for the community.