Karak: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan announced that development projects under the government's vision for Karak Governorate have achieved an 85 percent completion rate, with full completion anticipated in the current and upcoming years at a total cost of JD 266 million. Speaking at a Cabinet meeting in Karak, Hassan revealed that additional projects worth JD 13 million have recorded progress exceeding 70 percent, with a total of 158 projects planned for the governorate, closely monitored by relevant ministries.
According to Jordan News Agency, Hassan emphasized that these projects, whether implemented by the government or the Royal Hashemite Court, were initiated under His Majesty King Abdullah II's directives, reflecting the King's interest in Karak. The prime minister recalled a meeting held in Karak a year ago, during which a clear development vision was established, including projects, programs, funding, and a three-year timeline. Hassan underscored the government's commitment to implementing this vision across all governorates.
Hassan explained that holding Cabinet meetings in various governorates is part of a partnership approach to review progress, implement agreed projects, and identify new priorities. He assured that the government considers all observations and needs raised by local representatives, prioritizing projects based on feasibility and conditions, while maintaining transparency.
Addressing recent weather-related damages, Hassan stated that JD 10 million has been allocated to rehabilitate damaged infrastructure and enhance resilience to extreme weather events. He expressed gratitude to potash and phosphate companies for their financial contributions to infrastructure needs. Priority is given to infrastructure repairs, supporting families with damaged homes, and compensating farmers.
Regarding Karak Castle's damage, Hassan confirmed that restoration is a top priority in the coming months. The castle's development is part of a broader initiative under the Karak City Revitalization Plan, which includes various projects aimed at boosting tourism and the local economy.
Hassan announced the commencement of the Battle of Mu'tah archaeological landscape project, the completion of the al-Kharza-al-Aghwar road this year, and improvements to rainwater drainage systems. He highlighted incentives for the King Hussein Bin Abdullah II Industrial City and the Ghor al-Safi Agricultural Industries Development Zone, which attracted investments totaling about JD 27 million, creating significant job opportunities.
In the education and health sectors, Hassan detailed the completion of schools, a new outpatient clinic, an emergency and ambulance center, and the expansion of health centers. He noted the government's efforts to complete stalled projects, such as the Prince Faisal Youth City and the development of Qatrana Castle.
Regarding higher education, Hassan mentioned the Cabinet's approval to settle JD 100 million in dues to public universities, encouraging improved performance and financial sustainability. Ministers reviewed projects across sectors, including infrastructure, water, education, health, energy, transport, social development, investment, agriculture, environment, tourism, youth, culture, and digital economy.
The Ministry of Public Works and Housing addressed weather-related damages, completed road projects, and planned additional infrastructure projects. The Ministry of Water and Irrigation completed significant water projects and planned future initiatives to enhance water supply and efficiency.
The Ministry of Local Administration allocated funds to repair weather-damaged infrastructure and implement municipal projects. The Ministry of Education completed numerous school projects with future plans through 2028. Agricultural and environmental projects focused on food processing, water harvesting, industrial agriculture, and climate adaptation.
The Ministry of Investment and Ministry of Finance reported attracting industrial investments, creating jobs, and announced future projects in agriculture and manufacturing. Social protection efforts included assistance to families, housing projects, and expanded support through the National Aid Fund.
Employment projects focused on job creation, skills training, and future employment contracts. Energy initiatives included solar energy systems and energy efficiency programs. Other sectors like religious affairs, tourism, youth, culture, transport, and digital transformation also implemented projects to enhance services and infrastructure in the governorate.