Two adjacent four-story buildings collapse in Morocco's Fez, killing at least 22 and injuring 16 others.
(The Post News)- In Morocco’s northeastern city of Fez, where two adjacent four-story buildings collapsed overnight, claiming at least 19 lives and injuring 16 others. The buildings, home to eight families, were located in the Al-Mustaqbal neighborhood.
Local authorities, security services, and civil protection units sprang into action, launching search and rescue operations immediately after the incident. The injured were rushed to the university hospital centre in Fez, while efforts continued around the clock to locate others potentially trapped under the rubble.
Signs Of Neglect And Structural Issues
The state’s news agency reported that the buildings had shown signs of neglect and structural issues, with visible cracks and deterioration evident for some time. This has raised concerns about the safety of other buildings in the area.
Fez, a former imperial capital, has a history of protests over deteriorating living conditions and poor public services. The city is grappling with chronic problems such as inadequate housing and limited services.
Government Faces Criticism
The Moroccan government has faced criticism for its handling of the situation, with some calling for improved infrastructure and emergency response measures.
Search and rescue teams are working tirelessly to clear debris and locate potential survivors. The death toll currently stands at 22, with 16 others injured.
The incident has sparked an outpouring of condolences and support from across the country. Morocco’s economic activity and key infrastructure are concentrated in the northwest, leaving many areas reliant on farming, fisheries, and tourism.
The tragedy highlights the need for improved building safety regulations and enforcement in Morocco. The country has experienced similar incidents in the past, including a deadly building collapse in Marrakech in 2016.
The Al-Mustaqbal neighborhood is in shock, with residents describing the incident as a “tragedy” and calling for increased safety measures.
Local authorities have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to respond to the incident and support affected families.
The incident has also raised questions about the country’s preparedness for emergencies and disaster response.
Morocco’s population is concentrated in the northwest, with many areas facing development challenges.
The government has promised to investigate the cause of the collapse and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
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