Work

Urban Expansion vs. Environmental Resilience: Khenchela’s Semi-Arid Struggle and Pathways to Sustainable Revival

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the rapid, often uncontrolled urban expansion in Khenchela, a medium-sized city in Algeria’s eastern High Plains, and its profound environmental repercussions amid semi-arid fragility. Drawing on sustainable urban development and resilience frameworks, it dissects pressures such as green space reduction (from 45 ha in 1998 to 33 ha in 2023, dropping per capita from 6.1 m2 to 3 m2 below WHO standards), water scarcity with 35% leakage losses waste mismanagement, informal settlements on hazardous lands, air/soil pollution, and climate vulnerabilities like heat waves and flooding. Employing a mixed-methods approach documentary analysis of (MPLUUP, LUP and MDP) plans, GIS cartography of spatial evolution (2000–2025), statistical demographics, field observations, and institutional critiques, the research exposes governance gaps: fragmented coordination, weak ecological integration, and resource shortages. It reveals socio-spatial disparities across functional zones, underscoring the need for adaptive, participatory strategies that promote polycentric and compact urban forms, enhanced biodiversity, efficient infrastructure, and inclusive governance to strengthen urban resilience.

Source: Urban Science

DOI: 10.3390/urbansci10050228

Authors: Lakhdar Saidane, Ghani Boudersa, Atef Ahriz, Soufiane Fezzai, Mohamed Elhadi Matallah

Institutions: Larbi Ben M'hidi University of Oum El Bouaghi, Université Larbi Tébessi, University of Liège, University of Biskra

Language: English

Topic: Urban Development and Societal Issues

Subfield: Urban Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Sustainable cities and communities, Life on land, Climate action, Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,930