Jeddah Sea ‘pollution is above global benchmark, says expert

Saudi Gazette report JEDDAH — An environment expert has said that pollution in the sea along Jeddah's shores has gone beyond allowed global benchmark. Former professor of ecology at King Abdulaziz University, Ali Eshgi, criticized what he considered irresponsible behavior by the National Water Company (NWC), which is in charge of managing treatment plants. Eshgi said beaches of the Red Sea from the south to the north are contaminated, threatening the safety of people living in the area. "Red Sea in Jeddah is no longer a pleasant view after being blocked by waves of environmental pollutants and giant pipes that pour contaminated water into the sea," he said, adding that the seawater has lost its color and splendor. Undersecretary of Saudi Arabia Presidency of Meteorology and Environment (PME), Abdul Basit Serafi, said that the level of pollution in the area was not as high as people have imagined it to be. He noted that efforts are being made to preserve the sea environment and to address any pollution sources. Earlier there were 330 points for the disposal of waste water. Over the years, and in coordination with the PME and the municipality, 328 of these points have been closed. As regards to treatment plants that dump sewage water into the sea, he said that treated sewage water must meet global standards and regulations.