91% of the Work Completed: The Haws Reconstruction Project Approaches Its Conclusion
Express TV: Mustafa Filali
The reconstruction workshops in the Al-Haouz region are nearing the final touches of a massive national project that has reshaped the villages and towns affected by the devastating earthquake in September 2023. Two years after the natural disaster, the completion rate is on the verge of being finalized, thanks to extensive mobilization and precise coordination among various stakeholders, including local authorities, engineers, contractors, and civil associations.
Hassan Igheghi, the coordinator of the reconstruction and rehabilitation program for the affected areas, revealed in a statement to the Maghreb Arab Press that the reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in Al-Haouz have reached 91.33%, with nearly 24,000 homes built according to stringent technical standards. He noted that all tents used as temporary shelters for families have been permanently removed.
The official added that the progress rate is expected to rise to 93% by the end of September and reach 96% within the next two months, although construction has yet to begin on about 4% of the homes due to disputes among heirs or some beneficiaries withdrawing despite receiving the first installment of support, which has necessitated legal proceedings following their notification by the authorities.
Igheghi explained that the initial stages of the operation were complicated due to the region’s rough geographical nature, which involved rescue missions, assessing the damages, and clearing the rubble of more than 23,500 collapsed homes before issuing building permits in accordance with detailed specifications that consider anti-seismic standards and the architectural and cultural specifics of the area.
He also praised the significant engagement of all stakeholders in the field, which allowed for “very positive” results in reconstruction and rehabilitation. Many residents, who have returned to their homes, expressed their great satisfaction with the gradual return to normal life and the resumption of their daily activities.
