A mixed commission comprising representatives from various services of Tizi Ouzou province, including the DTP, DUC, OPGI, hydraulic services, and CTC, visited Aïn El Hammam to assess the situation of two buildings in the city center that have been weakened by ground movement. The buildings, located in one of the most frequented streets of the former Michelet, pose a significant threat to the safety of residents, passersby, and motorists.
The commission's findings have been described as "alarming," with the buildings continuing to tilt towards the market area, evident from the one-meter gap that has formed between them and neighboring buildings at the fourth-floor level. The potential collapse of these structures, which overlook the bi-weekly market, could result in significant damage and put many lives at risk.
According to Aït Salah Mohand Saïd, vice-president of the Aïn El Hammam People's Assembly Committee (APC), the commission members unanimously agreed on the urgent need to demolish the buildings in the interest of the population. The APC has already initiated discussions with affected residents and business owners regarding the relocation of tenants, following a similar situation in 2009.
An agreement appears to have been reached between the authorities and the affected parties, with only the upper floors of the buildings slated for demolition. The remaining structures will be preserved to provide support to the street and upstream buildings. Despite the potential danger, daily life in the area seems to be carrying on normally, with businesses continuing to operate and residents going about their daily activities.
While some minor disruptions have been noted, such as subsidence in the road surface and difficulties for vehicles to pass through in certain areas, the situation does not appear to be causing widespread alarm. The local authorities have taken steps to secure the area, establishing a perimeter fence around the market, which has reduced the area available for fruit and vegetable sales.
However, a complete closure of the market does not seem to be on the cards for now. The authorities are working to mitigate the risks associated with the potentially imminent collapse, prioritizing the safety of those in the surrounding area.
The situation in Aïn El Hammam highlights the challenges faced by authorities in maintaining the safety and integrity of infrastructure in the region, particularly in areas prone to geological instability.
Key points
- The Algerian authorities have formed a mixed commission to address the imminent collapse of two buildings in Aïn El Hammam, Tizi Ouzou province.
- An agreement has been reached to demolish only the upper floors of the buildings, preserving the lower structures to provide support to the street and upstream buildings.
- Despite the potential danger, daily life in the area appears to be carrying on normally, with businesses continuing to operate and residents going about their daily activities.
