GEOSPATIAL EXPLORATION OF FLOOD RISKS AND SAFETY MEASURES IN MAKKAH CITY: IMPACT ASSESSMENT ON BOYS' SCHOOL DISTRIBUTIONS FOR INFORMED INFRASTRUCTURE PLANNING

Abstract

This study investigated the dynamic changes that have occurred in Makkah's educational system as a direct result of significant urban development and an increase in the number of schools. One of the main challenges in effectively managing this growth is paying close attention to safety, future expansion needs, and spatial organization. Thus, the study aims to address this challenge through a multifaceted approach. It seeks to analyze the current distribution of boys' schools in Makkah by unraveling spatial patterns, identifying shortage, and assessing the density of existing schools. Additionally, the study aims to deduce potential locations for future schools and optimize their placement based on identified needs. Quantitative methods that include ArcGIS Pro and Anaconda3 analyses were used in this study. Schools within Makkah's boundaries were analyzed using ArcGIS's Optimized Hotspot Analysis tool, while schools outside Makkah were analyzed using Python in Anaconda3 to find clusters and shortages. Also, the hydrological analysis contributed to identifying schools vulnerable to flood risks by classifying them into different potential risk levels based on their proximity to stream networks, flow accumulation, and terrain slope. This classification was conducted utilizing a hydrological analysis model, which ensures a comprehensive understanding of safety considerations. The study revealed that there was a shortage of schools in the southern and northeastern regions of Makkah, whereas there was a large concentration of schools in central Makkah. In suburban areas, considerable shortages were discovered in Al Jumum and Bahrah governorates, with a significant difference in the number of schools across education levels. The flood risk classification classified six elementary schools and two secondary schools in potential high-risk zones, whereas the majority of high schools were in low or no-risk areas. These findings emphasize the necessity of better school distribution and enhanced safety protocols in areas vulnerable to flooding.