Geographical Analysis of the Housing Crisis in Al-Maimouna City According to Population Growth: A Study of Causes and Remedies

Abstract

The housing problem has become one of the most significant issues facing Iraq in general and the study area in particular. Despite the measures and initiatives undertaken by the state to address this problem, such as constructing residential complexes, distributing land plots, and providing housing loans, these measures have not offered radical solutions to the crisis. The research problem revolves around one of the major issues in the study area, namely the housing crisis, from which many families still suffer due to their inability to obtain suitable housing. The importance of the study lies in proposing a set of comprehensive measures adopted by the research, which could significantly contribute to confronting the housing problem in the city. These measures may assist the state in addressing the housing crisis and finding fundamental solutions in line with government directions and initiatives, aa well as with the provisions of the current Iraqi Constitution, which obliges the state of provide adequate housing for all citizens.

The study relied on the systems approach in tracing the roots of the problem and its aggravation up to the present time, alongside presenting the prevailing housing conditions in the city. This was followed by an analysis of several indicators related to the causes of the problem, such as rising land prices, rent levels, severe housing overcrowding, and the rapid population growth of the city.  Based on the data analysis, the study identified directions for alleviating and addressing the housing problem through adopting housing projects according to realistic considerations and standards, especially with regard to housing for low-income groups and the poor. In addition, the study proposed several interconnected strategies related to the issue.The research concluded with several conclusions and recommendations, most notably that the increasing population and mechanical growth in Al-Maimouna city between 1987 and 2023, where the population jumped to (34,915 people) and families to (6,867 families), led to massive pressure on the housing sector. This demographic explosion tripled the housing deficit to reach (1,996 units) by a percentage of (51.7%) in the year 2023, causing inflation in rents to start from (150 thousand) and reach (350 thousand Dinars) monthly. Despite this shortage, field indicators proved that the core of the crisis is due to housing monopoly and poor distribution, not the absolute shortage; which requires the state to adopt a comprehensive developmental strategy and real, time-bound housing to provide adequate housing and liquidate the crisis radically.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.54633/2333-025-059-002