Ibrahim Shihab Okaz/Saudi Gazette JEDDAH – The residents of Al-Khomrah neighborhood in south Jeddah have been complaining recently about a large pool of stagnant water that has formed near the neighborhood. No one knows how and when the dirty water formed. There are mosquitoes, small fish, and dead birds in the lake which reeks of fetid smell. The majority of residents have been living in anguish because of this foul-smelled lake that has spread over as large area. Some fear that the dirty water will reach their property and houses soon. Muhammad Al-Zahrani, who lives in Al-Khomrah, warned against neglecting the lake and not doing something about it. He said some gangs might use the location to sell and promote drugs. The residents visit the lake every now and then to ensure that there are no illegal activities going on, he added. “We noticed that the lake formed as a result of water that comes from Makkah and passes by Al-Khomrah,” Al-Zahrani said. The residents contacted concerned authorities and asked them to take action to find out how the water accumulated in this area. Muhammad Aqili, resident of Al-Khomrah, said he had seen many dead animals including birds near the lake. “Mosquitoes, flies, and fish can be seen eerywhere. This is a sign of imminent environmental catastrophe that will hit this neighborhood soon.” Issa Zalyaee said this problem threatens their homes, children, and schools and something should be done. He said a group of residents posted a YouTube video of the lake which poses great risks to many homes. He also believes that the source of water is coming from Makkah. Although the residents contacted concerned authorities two months ago, no one had responded yet, he added. How long should the residents wait for authorities to respond to their calls and solve this problem? “The water is moving fast towards our homes and might cause severe damage to our property.” Ibrahim Al-Rabee, another resident expressed fears that dengue fever might spread because of the swarm of mosquitoes. “The first case of the dengue fever was discovered in Al-Khomrah in the past. We will contract serious diseases if the situation continues,” he said. Some residents went to Jeddah Mayoralty and complained to officials about the dangers of this lake. However, the mayoralty directed them to file a complaint with the municipal council first. “Neither the council's inspectors nor the mayoralty's officials appeared or responded to our complaints.” Jeddah Mayoralty spokesman Dr. Abdul Aziz Al-Nahari said he had not heard about the lake before, promising to check and see the source of this water, and whether it's sewage or not.
