HIBAPRESS – Fikri Ouladali
The growing fears of flood risks in both the cities of Imzouren and Beni Bouayach in the Al Hoceima province place the authorities and concerned parties before the responsibility of early action and developing a clear proactive plan, to prevent heavy rainfall from becoming a source of danger to citizens' lives and property.
The nature of some areas, along with the condition of a number of watercourses and rainwater drainage channels, necessitates a comprehensive technical assessment to identify the spots most vulnerable to floods, and to address the flaws before any weather disturbances that could have on-the-ground repercussions occur.
In this context, the need arises to rehabilitate the rainwater drainage network, purify wadis and channels, and address black spots, in addition to completing the necessary technical studies and developing scenarios for rapid intervention in exceptional cases.
Furthermore, confronting flood risks should not be limited to intervention after damage has occurred, but rather requires adopting a preventative approach in which regional authorities, territorial communities, and specialized technical departments participate, within a practical program that includes specific projects, clear deadlines, and sufficient financial resources.
Field experiences confirm that prevention and prior preparedness remain less costly than addressing losses after a disaster strikes, which makes action today more urgent than ever, especially in areas known for water accumulation spots or overflowing channels.
The safety of citizens and the protection of their property remain a priority that requires the mobilization of various stakeholders, so that Imzouren and Beni Bouayach are better prepared to face weather fluctuations, far from the logic of intervening after damage has occurred.
