HIBAPRESS – Azilal
The Ouzoud Falls area in the province of Azilal has witnessed, in recent days, an unusual development that has disturbed the population and those interested in environmental affairs, after recording a sharp and sudden decrease in the water level that feeds this famous natural landmark, in a rare scene that the area has not known over the past years.
According to local data, a disruption in the water flow was initially observed before the situation worsened, as the flow receded significantly and the water no longer emerged from only two limited points, after several springs were the main source of the waterfalls' flow. This rapid transformation brought to the forefront urgent questions about the underlying reasons behind it, especially since Ouzoud Falls has historically been known for the continuity of its flow, even during periods of drought. The phenomenon raised widespread concern among the population and tourism actors, given the environmental and economic value represented by the waterfalls, as a basic pillar for local tourism activity, and a natural space that ensures a delicate environmental balance for the region. In an urgent reaction to the developments, a mixed committee including various concerned departments moved to the site, in order to conduct accurate field inspections and open a comprehensive investigation to determine the backgrounds of this unprecedented decline, whether related to natural factors such as climate change, or the possibility of human interventions that affected the water table. The mystery remains over the future of Ouzoud Falls pending the results of the investigation, at a time when eyes are turning to what these investigations will reveal, in order to preserve one of the most prominent natural treasures in Morocco, and ensure its continuity as a tourist and environmental destination of national and international radiance.
