On November 10, Algerian Minister of Interior Brahim Merad led a delegation to Tlemcen to assess the impact of toxic waste from Morocco on local environment and residents. The team, which included ministers from Environment, Hydraulics, Health, and Communication, inspected areas affected by polluted water from the Oued Mouillah and Hammam Boughrara dam. They observed the consequences of these toxic waste on the environment and local populations.
The Algerian government has analyzed the waste and found alarming levels of chemical and biological pollutants, pharmaceutical substances, and heavy metals. According to Merad, some concentrations are up to 100 times higher than authorized norms. The minister attributed these high levels to human intervention, rather than accidental pollution. This issue has been ongoing, with over 45 tons of dead fish reported in the Hammam Boughrara dam in September and October 2024.
The pollution affects not only the environment but also local agriculture and residents. Representatives from the agricultural sector reported that crops are threatened, and farmers are forced to abandon using water from the Oued Mouillah. Abdellah Larbi Hannachi, from the Tlemcen agricultural chamber, stated that the region is being neglected due to polluted water, jeopardizing agricultural activities and the future of local farmers.
The Algerian government considers this pollution a national security issue, affecting water, food, and public health. Merad assured that efforts are being made to ensure safe drinking water, but also emphasized the need for international action. He stated that Algeria will not remain passive and will pursue investigations to establish responsibility.
Algeria plans to take this issue to international authorities, citing obligations related to shared watercourses. Merad warned that dossiers will be opened, and investigations will be conducted to determine responsibility. The government aims to address this issue through diplomatic channels and international institutions.
Local residents and farmers have expressed their concerns and condemnation of the toxic waste from Morocco. They demand action to protect their environment, agricultural activities, and public health. The Algerian government's response aims to address these concerns and ensure a safe and healthy environment for its citizens.
The situation remains a pressing concern for Algeria, with potential implications for regional relations and international cooperation. Key points include:
Key points
- The Algerian government has found high levels of pollutants and heavy metals in local waterways due to toxic waste from Morocco.
- The pollution affects local agriculture, residents, and national security, prompting Algeria to consider international action.
- Algeria plans to pursue investigations and take this issue to international authorities to establish responsibility and address the issue.
