Green Spaces in Marrakech Suffer from Neglect and Damage
The green spaces and ornamental plants at the entrance of Marrakech, particularly along the strategic road connecting "Dar Tunis" and "Ain Itti" on the Fes road, are facing severe damage and neglect. This troubling situation has emerged just a few months after the completion of road expansion works, sidewalk rehabilitation, and the creation of environmental spaces. The lack of maintenance and cessation of irrigation following the completion of essential works has quickly transformed these vital areas into dry, barren patches, as highlighted by Hafid Abd al-Majid, the writer and regional coordinator of the Party of Reform and Development in Marrakech.
Abd al-Majid pointed out that a significant public budget had been allocated to enhance the aesthetic and environmental appearance of the eastern entrance to the red city. However, this investment has been marred by neglect from the delegated authorities responsible for managing the sector. He expressed his discontent with the management mechanisms of this project, deeming the abandonment of newly planted seedlings and trees to die of thirst as a glaring example of public funds mismanagement and a clear indication of the absence of effective governance and strategic oversight in the maintenance of developmental and aesthetic projects in the city.
Community Outrage Over Deteriorating Conditions
Local residents and stakeholders initially welcomed the initiatives that included sidewalk enhancements and road expansions, but their enthusiasm quickly faded as public investments intended for greenery turned into mere dried plants with yellowing leaves due to technical neglect and the abandonment of irrigation. Abd al-Majid raised essential questions regarding the rationale behind allocating substantial public funds for the establishment of green spaces without corresponding, precise planning for regular maintenance and direct daily watering following the completion and preparation phases.
He held the municipal council of Marrakech fully responsible for this regression, as it is the entity overseeing, funding, and supervising these projects. Abd al-Majid emphasized that the council must monitor the compliance of the companies tasked with managing green spaces and cleanliness with the terms of their contracts, ensuring the sustainability of these vital facilities that represent the city's facade to its visitors.
In conclusion, the regional coordinator of the Party of Reform and Development in Marrakech called for the urgent need for an internal investigation to uncover the underlying causes of this negligence and pinpoint the failures that have led to the accelerated deterioration. He urged that accountability be enforced against anyone found negligent in fulfilling their duties. Furthermore, he advocated for a prompt field intervention to salvage what can be saved by rehabilitating the affected spaces, replacing dead seedlings and plants, and establishing a sustainable irrigation system to protect the city's environmental assets and preserve its infrastructure.
As reported by al3omk.com.
