Steps are accelerating in Morocco to begin the process of rebuilding the areas affected by the devastating earthquake, and rehousing residents who lost their homes.
Pending the completion of the process of counting the damaged buildings and assessing the damage in the various areas struck by the earthquake, a number of experts in the architectural and environmental fields proposed constructing villages according to an ecological system that respects the peculiarities of the region and preserves the environment.
The earthquake, which left thousands of victims and wounded, led to the collapse of 59,675 buildings, 32 percent of which were completely destroyed, and 68 percent were partially destroyed, according to official data.
Morocco has developed a program to rehabilitate the areas struck by the earthquake on September 8, with a budget estimated at $12 billion over 5 years.
Preserving the environment and the aesthetics of buildings
A number of experts in the field of the environment call for moving the reconstruction process of affected areas towards environmentally friendly construction, using local materials and working to preserve the sustainable lifestyle of the population.
The researcher in climate and sustainable development issues, Muhammad Benabar, emphasizes the importance of using local materials and taking into account the traditional method in rebuilding new homes to give beauty to the area on the one hand, and to preserve the environment and reduce pollution rates on the other hand.
In a statement to Sky News Arabia, Benabou stresses the necessity of:
Taking into account the heritage and ecological diversity that characterized the mountainous areas before the earthquake. Stimulating sustainable development at the level of the ecological environment and forest systems that were affected by the earthquake when preparing programs for the reconstruction of the region. Preserving local architectural characteristics and adopting an ecological building resistant to climate change by treating earthquake waste and using it in reconstruction. Supporting the eco-tourism sector in the region and promoting the prosperity of environmental activities to contribute to providing job opportunities for the residents of those areas.
Taking into account the privacy of the area
The authorities concerned with reconstruction and construction are holding extensive meetings with professionals working in various fields related to construction and engineering, in order to prepare a vision for the rapid reconstruction of the areas damaged by the devastating Al Haouz earthquake.
Mohamed Karim Sibai, head of the Casablanca Architects Authority, says that during these meetings, a number of points are being focused on, the most prominent of which is the adoption of sound, earthquake-resistant construction to avoid a repeat of the tragedy.
Al-Sibai, who previously made field visits and inspection tours to the affected areas, explained to Sky News Arabia that the most important thing being discussed before starting the reconstruction process is:
Preserving the architectural privacy of the areas to be reconstructed. Using local materials in construction, such as wood, dirt, and gypsum, and recycling some building materials resulting from earthquake waste. Respecting standards that preserve the environment while following the technical conditions for earthquake-resistant construction by mixing reinforced concrete known for its strength and durability with environmentally friendly materials. The process is supervised by professionals in the field of construction, reconstruction and engineering, with the assistance of the expertise of local residents.
Support affected areas
Morocco intends to create a dedicated agency to ensure the implementation of the reconstruction program for the areas struck by the earthquake, as well as to ensure the investment that is expected to be established in those areas.
The Kingdom also took a number of measures to support families affected by the earthquake, which will be:
Allocating financial support to each family in the amount of 2,500 dirhams ($250) per month over a period of one year.
Compensation
Providing 140 thousand dirhams (about 14 thousand dollars) to families whose homes completely collapsed. Providing 80,000 dirhams (about $8,000) to families whose homes were partially damaged.
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2023-09-28 04:08:13
