The Department of Applied Geography at the College of Education for the Humanities, University of Kerbala, discussed the PhD dissertation “Industrial Establishments in Al-Hurr and Ain Al-Tamr Districts and Their Impact on Spatial Development,” by the PhD candidate Diaa Qahtan Ibrahim and supervised by Prof. Dr. Riyadh Kadhim Salman.
The importance of the study lies in the industrial sector, which is one of the most significant economic activities that many countries rely on to build their economies. This sector has a high potential for enhancing and developing the economic and social structure of Al-Hurr and A’in Al-Tamr districts, which occupy the northern and western parts of Kerbala. The industrial sector is capable of meeting the increasing needs of the population. This is because it brings about economic and social changes, contributing to the investment and development of the industrial sector.
The dissertation consists of five chapters. The first chapter discusses industrial establishments and their impact on spatial development. The second chapter examines the natural, human, and economic factors influencing the location of industrial establishments in Al-Hurr and A’in Al-Tamr districts. While the third analyses the geographical distribution of large and medium-sized industrial establishments in the two districts. The fourth chapter presents the relative importance analysis and SWOT analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats) for industrial establishments in the two districts. Finally, the fifth chapter discusses the impact of industrial establishments on spatial development, their future prospects, and strategic plans.
Moreover, the study reached several key findings, including the relationship between geographical development potentials and spatial advantages that can be leveraged for industrial investment. The study area was found to have advantages and potential that contribute to the development of industrial activities, especially in terms of raw materials. Additionally, the geographical capabilities of the area encourage the establishment of various industries (construction, food, and proposed industries) that can boost the economy in Al-Hurr and A’in Al-Tamr districts. Based on the Quantitative and SWOT analyses, Al-Hurr district had the highest percentage of advantages, confirming the availability of good infrastructure and basic resources for establishing and developing industries and their investments, especially since A’in Al-Tamr district has mineral resources suitable for construction industries.
The discussion committee was composed of the following members:
• Prof. Dr. Kafaya Abdullah Abdul-Abbas (Chair)
• Prof. Dr. Samir Fleih Hassan (Member)
• Prof. Dr. Aliya Hussein Ali (Member)
• Prof. Dr. Hussein Fadel Abd (Member)
• Assistant Prof. Dr. Uday Fadel Abd (Member)
• Prof. Dr. Salma Abdul Razzaq Abd (Member)
• Prof. Dr. Riyadh Kazem Salman (Supervisor and Member)
