Baghdad: Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani has announced a bold initiative to address the housing needs of middle-income earners through the development of new residential cities. During his visit to the Al-Jawahiri Residential City project, Al-Sudani emphasized that the government’s initiative is based on a thorough analysis of the housing crisis and aims to cater to the specific needs of this demographic.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Al-Sudani highlighted that the new residential developments are designed to provide comprehensive housing services, with a portion also allocated for low-income earners. He outlined the government’s vision for these cities, which will include integrated services and a range of commercial and economic activities. The Prime Minister stressed the importance of making housing affordable and accessible, with a focus on the design, pricing, and installment plans of housing units.

Al-Sudani acknowledged the challenges encountered in the residential city projects, such as securing land and coordinating among various ministries regarding ownership issues. He instructed relevant ministries and local authorities to devise a unified plan to ensure the provision of essential services, including electricity, communications, roads, and national networks.

The Prime Minister underscored the importance of adhering to technical specifications aligned with urban housing and planning standards. He also called for the swift implementation of projects by construction companies and encouraged the adoption of modern technology to align with contemporary developments. Environmental considerations were also highlighted, with Al-Sudani advocating for the preservation of green spaces.

Al-Sudani revealed that housing unit designs will accommodate individuals with disabilities and incorporate smart city standards, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to urban development. During his field visit to the “New Al-Jawahiri City” project site, located west of Baghdad, he reviewed the project’s progress since its inception in December 2023. As one of the key housing projects in the government program, the Prime Minister engaged with workers on-site, addressed obstacles, and commended the New Cities Authority and the Ministry of Construction for their efforts in facilitating the project.