The commune of Feraoun in Béjaïa, Algeria, is home to the historic Tamelahth saline site, a natural, cultural, and historical treasure. The site comprises three villages: Ikechaven, Iadnanen, and Ath Ouni, collectively known as Imellahen, or "workers of the salines." The region's population once relied on agriculture and salt collection, with families taking turns exploiting the salines. The site was classified as a wilaya heritage site in 2014 but has since fallen into disrepair.
The saline site, now a dumping ground for household waste, has been neglected by local authorities, according to the cultural association "Sans frontières" from Iadnanen village. The association recently issued a statement calling for the site's rehabilitation, citing the area's historical significance and tourism potential. Despite previous promises from local authorities, including a visit from the Béjaïa wali on March 28, 2019, the site remains unaddressed.
Local associations, including "Assirem Gouraya" and "Aaj Tafthilt," have organized campaigns to raise awareness about the site's plight and promote its preservation. These groups believe that rehabilitating the salines could boost tourism and support local economic development. The associations have collaborated with the Forest Directorate and other organizations to clean up the site and promote environmental protection.
The decline of the saline site is attributed to various factors, including the closure of a nearby municipal landfill, which led to increased waste dumping in the area. With only six people currently working at the site, the future of this historic location appears uncertain. Local residents, such as Adnane Abdeslam from Iadnanen, have expressed their desire to see the site restored and protected for future generations.
In response to concerns from local associations, the Béjaïa Culture Directorate has provided assurances that the site is protected by regulations and efforts are underway to secure funding for its preservation. The directorate acknowledged that a 2015 request for emergency funding was postponed due to economic conditions but remains hopeful that the necessary resources will be allocated.
The Tamelahth saline site offers a unique opportunity for sustainable tourism development, according to local associations. By working together, residents and authorities can restore the site to its former glory and promote environmental protection. The associations' efforts aim to ensure the long-term preservation of this cultural and natural heritage.
As the situation at the Tamelahth saline site continues to deteriorate, local associations and residents remain committed to advocating for its rehabilitation. With support from authorities and the community, it is hoped that this historic site can be saved and its significance preserved for future generations.
Key points
- Local associations are calling for the rehabilitation of the Tamelahth saline site, a historic and cultural treasure in Algeria's Béjaïa region.
- The site has been neglected and turned into a dumping ground for household waste, prompting concerns from residents and associations.
- Efforts are underway to secure funding and support for the site's preservation, with a focus on promoting sustainable tourism development.
