HIBAPRESS – Mohamed Zariouh
Martchica Lagoon in the city of Nador is experiencing disturbing environmental challenges that threaten its sustainability, despite being one of the most prominent environmental landmarks in the eastern region of Morocco.
The circulating images indicate a wide spread of algae on the water surface, reflecting environmental pollution resulting from the accumulation of organic matter and an increase in the pollution rate in the water. In addition, the images showed the accumulation of solid waste, including rubber tires and other debris, reflecting a weakness in waste management and the absence of effective control over pollution sources. This situation reflects a weakness in the performance of the Martchica Lagoon Development Agency, which is responsible for protecting and managing this natural space. Despite the financial support the agency received two months ago to implement programs to protect and clean the lagoon, the absence of a clear strategic vision and effectiveness in implementing these programs remains one of the biggest challenges it faces. The failure of the current director in managing the complex environmental files reflects a weakness in environmental monitoring and achieving sustainability goals. The seriousness of the situation is increasing in light of the deterioration of water quality, which threatens wildlife, especially waterfowl that depend on the lagoon as a habitat, as well as the potential negative effects on the health of the local population and on economic activities such as tourism and fishing. It is necessary for the Martchica Lagoon Development Agency to intensify its efforts in the field of environmental monitoring and enhance sustainable cleaning operations. Preserving Martchica Lagoon is no longer just an option, but has become an urgent necessity to ensure the protection of this important environmental landmark from environmental and economic degradation that may be difficult to remedy in the future.
