Extensive Rescue Simulation Conducted in Fes
On Monday, the historic district of Fes hosted a comprehensive field exercise aimed at simulating rescue and relief operations. This initiative was overseen by the regional civil protection authority of the Fes-Meknes region, with the involvement of various institutional partners. The primary objective of this exercise was to enhance the speed and effectiveness of interventions within the challenging access conditions typical of the narrow alleys found in the old medina. It also aimed to test rescue protocols and debris removal strategies in scenarios of building collapses or major disasters, as well as to strengthen operational coordination among civil protection units, local authorities, healthcare services, and security forces.
Scenario and Response Coordination
The simulation was based on a hypothetical scenario that began with a fire outbreak in a handicraft shop, which was followed by an explosion leading to a partial collapse of the building. This situation necessitated immediate action to manage both the victims and the hazardous materials simultaneously. Colonel Abdel Aziz Mekhmakh, the regional civil protection commander for the Fes-Meknes area, emphasized the exercise's aim to evaluate operational responsiveness and the speed of intervention during disasters, particularly considering the geographical peculiarities of the old medina, characterized by its narrow streets and the fragility of some structures.
Specialized teams from the civil protection authority were mobilized, including rescue and excavation teams, hazardous material response units, and trained canine units, which played a crucial role in locating individuals trapped under debris. The exercise also featured extensive participation from various stakeholders, including the Hassan II University Hospital, the regional health department, the agency for the development and rehabilitation of the city of Fes, as well as local authorities, national security, auxiliary forces, and the royal gendarmerie.
In a related statement, Khalid Snitri, the representative of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection in Fes, noted that this simulation is part of the preparations for the relief plan at the district level, aiming to assess the quality of coordination among the different responders and the entire relief chain at all levels.
As reported by ar.yabiladi.com.
