Chaos of Illegal Parking Attendants in Marrakech Unveiled
A recently circulated video on social media has shed light on the ongoing issue of illegal parking attendants, known locally as "gardiennage", in the city of Marrakech. The footage captures the plight of a visitor struggling to find a parking spot near the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa square, specifically on Moulay Ismail Street.
The video illustrates how individuals have taken control of public streets, initially preventing drivers from parking their vehicles under the pretext that the area is designated for motorcycles only. However, upon revisiting the same spot, the driver was astonished to see two other vehicles parked without issue, highlighting the arbitrary nature of these regulations. Furthermore, the video reveals that these unauthorized attendants do not wear uniforms or carry official identification badges, and they quickly attempt to justify their actions with flimsy excuses.
After an extensive search for a legitimate parking space, the individual in the video eventually found a spot in a private garage for a fee of 40 dirhams for just one hour. He was also instructed to leave his car keys with the garage attendant, with a warning to vacate the premises immediately if he refused, a demand delivered in a condescending manner. This experience has been aptly described in Moroccan colloquial terms as something one would not wish even upon their enemies, reflecting the arrogance and lawlessness displayed by these illegal attendants.
Despite increased efforts by security authorities to crack down on these "shoulder guards," as they are referred to on social media, and the subsequent arrests of several individuals, the problem persists. This situation underscores the necessity for stricter enforcement of the law to protect the image of Marrakech as a premier global tourist destination, and to safeguard the broader reputation of Morocco. It is essential for those affected to file complaints with local authorities to facilitate the necessary legal actions.
As reported by akhbarona.com.
