Tragedy Strikes in Fes: Rescue Operations Underway

On the morning of Thursday, May 21, 2026, residents of the Jnan El Grandi neighborhood in the Ain Nekbi area of Fes were shaken by the collapse of a residential building. The incident prompted an immediate response from local authorities, civil protection teams, and security personnel, who have been tirelessly conducting search and rescue operations amidst fears that more victims may be trapped beneath the rubble. As of now, seven individuals have been rescued, including six adults and a child who is reported to be in critical condition. The urgency of the situation has led to heightened anxiety among the community, as the structural integrity of many buildings in the area remains in question.

Authorities Address Structural Safety Concerns

Hind El Mouhi, the head of the Jnan El Ward district, emphasized the importance of not spreading misinformation until official assessments can be completed. She stated that the primary focus at this moment is on saving lives, expressing hope that all those trapped can be rescued safely. El Mouhi noted that the classification of the collapsed building remains uncertain until further evaluations are conducted. Meanwhile, she highlighted that the issue of at-risk buildings poses a significant challenge for the region, with ongoing efforts to relocate residents from these dangerous structures and provide them with suitable compensation. Just two days prior to the collapse, a meeting had convened to address this pressing issue, underscoring the proactive measures being taken by local authorities.

Abdelhadi El Nakabi, a council advisor, revealed that the collapse occurred around 3:20 AM, and he reiterated the stark reality facing the Ain Nekbi area, where between 50% to 60% of buildings are classified as structurally unsound. He called for urgent and decisive actions to prevent the recurrence of such tragic incidents, advocating for a comprehensive approach to tackle the risks associated with dilapidated buildings. The local laboratory for public studies and experiments (LPE) has been monitoring these unsafe buildings, and authorities are prepared to respond swiftly to any complaints or signs of danger. The situation remains critical as rescue efforts continue, and the community holds its breath for more positive outcomes amid ongoing fears of structural failures.

As reported by madar21.com.