Eid Al-Harthy Okaz/Saudi Gazette JEDDAH — Residents in Jeddah's East Briman neighborhood have complained that electricity services are inadequate and they have to share power with too many other houses. They also complain of deficiencies in sanitation and municipality services. East Briman is a densely populated and low-income neighborhood that lacks infrastructure, the residents said, adding it is also a safe haven for illegal residents. Some residents rely on extending electricity cables from neighbors' houses to provide electricity for themselves. These cables are a hazard to residents, especially during rain. Residents claimed there is a directive to provide electricity to any citizen who lives in a house, even if he does not have an ownership deed to the land or the house. Such cases are to be referred to the courts to facilitate the issuance of the necessary deeds, according to the law. A municipality source told Okaz/Saudi Gazette that all suggestions and complaints are dealt with. Some cases are referred to the municipality's branches for action. The municipality, the source added, received more than 6,000 applications for electrical services. However, only 25 percent of these applications met municipality criteria and electricity was provided to 250 houses in a number of neighborhoods. Other applications will be referred to the electric company. Spokesman for Jeddah Police First Lt. Nawaf Al-Bouq said police patrols conduct continuous campaigns in neighborhoods that attract residency violators. In addition, undercover police monitor such areas throughout the day. Spokesman for the Makkah Passport Department Lt. Col. Mohammad Al-Husain said his office also conducts similar campaigns.
