Urban Expansion vs. Environmental Resilience
Khenchela’s Semi-Arid Struggle and Pathways to Sustainable Revival
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 19489178 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Lakhdar Saidane (Larbi Ben M'hidi University of Oum El Bouaghi), Ghani Boudersa (0009-0003-0231-4214, Université Larbi Tébessi), Atef Ahriz (0000-0001-5891-0275, Université Larbi Tébessi, corresponding author), Soufiane Fezzai (0000-0002-3344-9299, Université Larbi Tébessi), Mohamed Elhadi Matallah (0000-0002-2089-8044, University of Liège) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Volume | 10 |
| Issue | 5 |
| Pages | 228 |
| Publication date | 2026-04-25 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Urban Science (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 2413-8851 • E-ISSN: 2413-8851 |
| Publisher | MDPI AG (PUBLISHER • IT) |
| DOI | 10.3390/urbansci10050228 |
| OpenAlex | W7156758926 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 14 |
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
Compact city · Corporate governance · Environmental governance · Human settlement · Per capita · Resource scarcity · Sustainable development · Urban expansion · Urban planning · Urbanization · Land Use and Ecosystem Services · Urban and Rural Development Challenges · Water management and technologies
| Highly cited | No |
|---|