Dr. Imad Al-Masry response regarding the Al-Nasr Boulevard project was not merely a casual comment, but rather a philosophical statement on the core of urban planning. Dr. Al-Masry refrained from delving into the details of the project's architectural design, preferring to focus on the foundational principles that should govern any massive development process. He affirmed that the success of such projects is not measured by the aesthetics of their lines or the grandiosity of their buildings, but by their ethical and procedural basis.
Transparency and Participation: Pillars of True Development
Dr. Al-Masry believes that any project of this magnitude must adhere to two fundamental pillars to ensure its success and sustainability:
1. Complete Transparency: Dr. Al-Masry stresses that transparency is not merely an option but an absolute necessity. All stages of the project, from initial planning to final implementation, must be clear and accessible to everyone. This includes providing information on funding, decisions made, and the desired objectives. Adopting this principle prevents corruption, enhances trust between citizens and authorities, and ensures that the project serves the public interest, not private interests or hidden agendas.
2. Effective Community Participation: Dr. Al-Masry emphasizes that a project will not be successful unless it is the result of genuine collaboration. Community members, experts, and stakeholders must be involved in the decision-making process. This participation is not limited to simply listening to opinions but extends to integrating them into the core of the planning. This ensures that the project meets the real needs of the residents and reflects their cultural and social identity, instead of imposing ready-made solutions that may not be suitable for the local reality. The community is not merely a recipient of a service, but an active partner in building its environment.
Towards a Sustainable Future
Dr. Al-Masry concludes that this participatory and transparent approach is the true guarantee for achieving social justice and public benefits from any urban or developmental project. His vision is not limited to the case of one project but provides a roadmap for the future of reconstruction in Syria, where the ultimate goal is to build integrated and sustainable communities, not just buildings.
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