HIBAPRESS – Casablanca
Amidst the ongoing debate regarding the working conditions at the Casablanca port, Said Al-Misbahi, the rapporteur of the General Union of Transport Professionals, issued a strong clarifying response, refuting recent discussions about the existence of "satisfaction" with the 24/24 work system within this vital facility.
Al-Misbahi emphasized that these data "do not reflect the field reality," pointing out that transport and logistics professionals and port users experience clear imbalances daily, primarily manifested in a state of confusion and congestion that directly affects the normal flow of activities within the port. The speaker added that the implementation of the continuous work system around the clock was not accompanied by effective organizational measures, as truck queues still extend for long hours waiting for access or unloading, while congestion inside the port contributes to the obstruction of logistical operations and the disruption of professionals' interests. Al-Misbahi also noted the absence of coordination between various stakeholders, considering that the ad hoc decision-making increases the severity of the suffering of drivers and carriers and deepens the crisis experienced by this strategic facility. In the same context, the union official highlighted that the problem of managing empty containers is still strongly present, holding some shipping companies partly responsible, as they have not succeeded in finding effective solutions to this problem, despite what is being promoted in the media with data he described as "inaccurate." The same source considered that talking about "satisfaction" inside the port misleads public opinion and ignores the daily difficulties faced by workers in the sector, calling for the real picture to be conveyed from within the field and for a professional investigation to be opened to identify the existing imbalances. He also stressed the need to involve professional representatives in developing practical and urgent solutions and to adopt a realistic approach instead of settling for media statements that do not reflect the reality of the situation. Al-Misbahi concluded his statement by emphasizing that improving the situation of the Casablanca port goes through recognizing the real problems and working to address them instead of denying or embellishing them. It is worth noting that a number of transport professionals are directing harsh criticisms of what they described as chaotic management within the port, holding some actors responsible, in addition to the measures adopted by Marsa Maroc, especially regarding the suspension of a number of administrative services at half past four in the afternoon, including invoicing services, which increases the complexity of the professionals' situation and exacerbates the congestion and waiting within the port.
