Mangaf Fire Sparks Urgent Call For Workers’ Cities

In the wake of the tragic Mangaf fire that claimed the lives of several workers due to overcrowded living conditions, the longstanding issue of workers’ cities has once again taken center stage in Kuwait. This incident has reignited calls for urgent action to address the housing needs of bachelor expatriate workers and alleviate overcrowding in residential areas, reports Al-Anba Daily.

Over the years, various authorities have stressed the necessity of establishing workers’ cities to provide adequate living conditions, essential services, and recreational amenities for workers. Despite initial plans being prepared by the Ministry of Public Works and other relevant agencies three years ago, progress towards implementation has been slow, leaving the project in the preparatory stages.

The issue gained further attention during the COVID-19 pandemic when movement restrictions highlighted the challenges faced by factories and companies whose workers were unable to access their workplaces due to residing in restricted areas. At that time, authorities underscored the urgency of constructing workers’ cities, yet the momentum waned as the pandemic receded until the Mangaf fire refocused attention on the issue.

Plans for six integrated workers’ cities, equipped with comprehensive services including healthcare, security, and recreational facilities, have been ready for years. These cities aim to relocate single workers from densely populated residential areas and enhance their living standards. Despite being earmarked for various governorates with designated sites and capacities, actual construction has not commenced.

Recently, Kuwait Municipality announced the initiation of the first labor city project in South Jahra, spanning over 1,015,000 square meters. This project, set for public-private partnership investment, will accommodate up to 20,000 bachelor workers from diverse nationalities. It will include residential complexes alongside essential services such as shops, mosques, playgrounds, and medical clinics, ensuring all infrastructure needs are met.

The establishment of workers’ cities is seen as crucial not only for providing adequate housing but also for easing traffic congestion in residential areas and enhancing overall public services. With the urgency underscored by recent events, Kuwait is urged to expedite the implementation of workers’ cities to safeguard the welfare and safety of its expatriate workforce.

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