Saudi Arabia’s Line megacity project has officially started construction as the first phase 1.5-mile (2.4-km) part is currently developing.
The Line will contain two mirror-clad skyscrapers that rise 656 feet (200 meters) high and stand parallel to each other along its planned 170-km stretch for 9 million residents. Enclosed by these structures will be a narrow urban corridor which provides residents with seamless access to daily essentials just a five-minute walk away. A high-speed rail line will pass through the city with the capability to deliver complete travel within 20 minutes.
The use of satellite imagery along with drone footage shows major excavation processes underway for building the foundation. Vast earth-moving activities are creating space for subterranean service zones and transportation tunnels.
According to reports, construction has begun on the site already with 140,000 workers. Rumors even have it that this project will take 20% of the world’s steel.
The project is projected to be completed by the year 2030 to accommodate the top-roof stadium envisioned for World Cup 2034.
However, the Line has faced skepticism even though it carries an ambitious vision. A number of specialists doubt that millions can live in such limited space while other professionals point to difficulties in engineering and financial expenses. The acquisition of land along with environmental impact worries has generated public discussions. An estimated $140 billion investment from the Saudi government shows their continued support for the project.
The ongoing construction work positions The Line to emerge as one of the most advanced urban experimentation projects worldwide. This project could establish an international benchmark for sustainable living in densely populated cities and redefine how urban development and megacity planning progress.
UphivaBETAR
Joseph Busari
