Compensation payments for people affected by the first phase of the Green Belt project will begin this week, according to local officials. The process will include owners of factories, warehouses, workplaces, and other facilities affected in the initial stage of the environmental project.
The Green Belt project’s first phase covers 2,800 dunams around Bahrka and the 150 Meter Road. Authorities completed this phase after planting about half a million olive trees. The project aims to expand green spaces and improve environmental conditions in the region.
Officials have already allocated funding for the second phase. This next stage will begin soon. The Green Belt initiative ranks among the largest environmental projects in the region. It seeks to reduce pollution, improve air quality, and create sustainable green zones around urban areas.
Hemin Said Murad, Director General of Agriculture in Erbil, said authorities are preparing to start the compensation process. He stated that the Erbil Municipality will send land maps on Monday. Officials will use these maps to complete compensation for affected property owners.
Murad said that 128 people lost land or facilities during the first phase. Their properties fell inside the project area, so they qualify for compensation.
He also said all affected people will receive compensation either in land or financial value. People who lost land will receive alternative plots. Those who lost buildings or businesses will receive compensation based on property value assessments.
Authorities say the compensation plan ensures fairness while allowing the Green Belt project to continue. Environmental concerns continue to rise across the region. Officials see the project as a long-term investment in sustainability and urban development.
The second phase will expand green coverage further. It will also strengthen environmental infrastructure across the region in the coming years.