Study of the reality of urban expansion and land use in urban areas in Algeria. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) techniques

In this research paper, we will try to study and evaluate the impact of rapid urbanization on land use and land zoning laws in Algerian cities. The study relies on quantitative techniques, geographic information systems, and remote sensing data with socio-economic data collected from interviews conducted by key stakeholders. It is noted through the study that cities have witnessed a significant urban expansion in recent years, especially in Algiers and Oran, at the expense of fertile agricultural lands such as the Mitidja plain and the Oran plain. The analysis shows that zoning and land use rules are ineffective and inappropriate to deal with the challenges brought by post-modern urbanization. Therefore, there are discrepancies between planned and actual land use. Some decision predictions are indicated as major challenges, for example, insufficient or restrictive zoning, and lack of flexibility. Finally, the study emphasizes the need to change policies, proposing the adoption of a flexible zoning system that allows for mixed-use development and high-density population. The comparative case analysis of other rapidly urbanizing societies such as Singapore, South Korea, Curitiba and Hong Kong has provided lessons from practices and models that can be adapted to the Algerian situation. This research thus adds to the knowledge by providing an assessment of the broad and indicative features of the specific regulatory and policy difficulties faced by Algerian cities and by arriving at concrete prescriptions for improving urban planning and zoning policies.