Spatial analysis of major industrial risks of petroleum origin in urban areas - The case of the city of Hassi-Messaoud

Abstract

Aiming at an efficient management of its oil sector and ensuring safety for its population and property, Algeria is currently engaged in all-out assessment approach. Efficient management and safety prove to be crucial parameters in oil-related activity. The major risks degree of the severity of whatever nature have impacts of various and diverse dimensions. The current study presents an occasional paradox case that which combines all high-risk elements and specific factors associated with them in an urban environment, which is made fragile and vulnerable due to its heavy exposure to a highly probable danger. The city of Hassi-Messaoud, the most important component of the Country's economy, witnesses an alarming spatial development driven by an exceptional population growth. The latter is primarily expressed through the incessant influx of immigrants attracted by promising job prospects in the oil industry sector. Coupled with the uncontrolled population movement, the urban expansion lends itself to the most dramatic aspect of Hassi-Messaoud and eventually exposes it to certain dangers all the more as Hassi-Messaoud is located in an area subject to significant potential oil-based risks.