The Tunisian Ministry of Interior has announced that it is closely monitoring buildings at risk of collapse across the country, particularly in the Greater Tunis area, including the Medina of Tunis and the Bab Souika neighborhood. This move comes in response to concerns over the safety of buildings in these historic areas. The ministry's services are working daily to identify potential hazards.

In a recent response to a written question from Deputy Amel Meddeb, the ministry provided an update on the status of dilapidated buildings located on Rue Ammar Bey in the Medina of Tunis. According to the ministry, the Tunis municipality has conducted a census and identified buildings that pose a risk. This initiative aims to address concerns over public and private safety in these areas.

A tripartite commission has been established to assess the risks associated with these buildings. The commission comprises representatives from the Tunis municipality, the Regional Directorate of Equipment and Housing, and the National Institute of Heritage. Their task is to conduct on-site inspections, create descriptive reports, and evaluate the level of danger posed by each building.

Based on the commission's findings, warnings are issued to building owners, advising them to take preventive measures to mitigate risks and protect public and private property. If necessary, further decisions can be taken, including evacuation orders, in accordance with existing legislation. The authorities are taking a proactive approach to preventing potential disasters.

The Tunis municipality has set up a rapid intervention team to address emergency situations. This team operates in two modes: immediate intervention to secure the site and clear debris in the event of a sudden collapse, and preventive intervention to demolish sections at risk of collapse, in coordination with relevant structures.

The Ministry of Interior's efforts aim to ensure public safety and prevent potential accidents in the Medina of Tunis and other areas. By identifying and addressing risks associated with dilapidated buildings, the authorities hope to minimize the threat to human life and property. This proactive approach is crucial in historic areas with densely populated neighborhoods.

The assessment and mitigation efforts are ongoing, with the authorities working to address the issue of at-risk buildings in the Medina of Tunis and beyond. Through collaboration between different agencies and stakeholders, the government aims to ensure that necessary measures are taken to safeguard public and private property.

Key points

  • The Tunisian Ministry of Interior has established a tripartite commission to assess risks associated with dilapidated buildings in the Medina of Tunis.
  • A rapid intervention team has been set up by the Tunis municipality to address emergency situations related to at-risk buildings.
  • The authorities are taking a proactive approach to preventing potential disasters by identifying and addressing risks associated with dilapidated buildings.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.