The office of Mustapha Bekkouri, head of the urban commune of Tetouan, has received reports of complete and partial building collapses in the old medina, posing a threat to the lives and safety of residents living in dilapidated buildings. This comes as the rainy season and strong winds approach, reviving concerns about the lack of maintenance and obstacles to repair permits.
The opposition in Tetouan's council has reminded the ruling majority of a recent building collapse in the Sakiia Al-Fouka neighborhood of the old medina and a tragic incident in April that killed two children. These incidents have raised fears about the precarious state of buildings in the old medina and the need to address complaints from affected neighborhoods.
According to opposition reports, protecting citizens' lives and property requires mobilizing various stakeholders and adopting a proactive approach that involves updating data, identifying priorities, and allocating financial resources. This is within the competence of the commune and contributes to urgent interventions aimed at reducing risks, in accordance with current laws.
The opposition has questioned the majority about the availability of an up-to-date census of dilapidated buildings in the commune, the number and distribution of these buildings by neighborhood, and their level of danger. They have also asked about measures taken by the ruling office to update this data and identify buildings that require immediate intervention.
Bekkouri is expected to respond with details about reinforcement, repair, and restoration programs, as well as measures to remove hazards while considering the legal and social status of those affected in the old medina and elsewhere. The opposition also seeks information on steps taken by the council to protect residents and pedestrians from collapse risks, particularly in busy streets and areas.
Sources close to the Tetouan urban commune presidency have stated that the issue of dilapidated buildings is complex and has accumulated over time. While some demolition work has been carried out, some residents fail to comply with evacuation notices, and there are issues related to low-cost old rentals and inheritance cases.
Some buildings require repairs from their owners, which involves obtaining maintenance and repair permits in the old medina subject to legal procedures and historical architectural standards. Three key points have emerged: the need for an up-to-date census of dilapidated buildings, the importance of proactive measures to address risks, and the complexity of resolving the issue due to various social and legal factors.
Key points
- The opposition in Tetouan's council is pressing for answers on the city's maintenance and safety measures following reports of building collapses in the old medina.
- The issue of dilapidated buildings in Tetouan is complex, involving social, legal, and financial factors that require a comprehensive approach.
- The council is expected to provide details on reinforcement, repair, and restoration programs, as well as measures to protect residents and pedestrians from collapse risks.
