Authorities in Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi district are investigating a phenomenon of extensive white foam flooding streets after recent rains, raising environmental concerns. The foam, which carried a cleaning product odor, has disrupted traffic and prompted a joint commission to determine its origins. Potential links include industrial discharges and untreated waste, with the situation reigniting discussions on urban planning.
An unusual occurrence has transpired in Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi district, where extensive white foam inundated several streets, disrupting traffic and raising environmental alarms. This phenomenon occurred on Tuesday night amidst heavy rains affecting various Moroccan cities, following a prolonged drought. Residents reported a distinctive cleaning product odor emanating from the foam, which quickly spread, immobilizing vehicles within its reach.
In response, Said Sabri, the president of the Sidi Bernoussi district, has established a joint commission to investigate the origins of the foam. Authorities have mobilized specialized teams to collect samples for comprehensive analysis, keeping all investigative possibilities open at this stage.
Ahmed Afilal, the vice-president of Casablanca municipality overseeing sanitation and liquid waste management, described the incident as a growing concern in recent months. He cautioned about the potential risks posed to public health and the coastal ecosystem, particularly affecting Sidi Bernoussi and Ain Harrouda areas.
The Regional Multiservice Company Casablanca-Settat (SRM-CS), tasked with the city’s liquid sanitation, has initiated its own investigation in collaboration with pertinent authorities. Preliminary assessments indicate a possible link between the foam and a nearby detergent manufacturing facility that may have improperly discharged industrial waste.
Experts propose multiple factors could be contributing to this phenomenon, including excess surfactants from detergents, untreated industrial or domestic discharges, decomposing organic material, malfunctioning treatment facilities, and filamentous bacteria. Local residents have observed that this is not the first incident of foam appearing in the district during heavy rain; however, the scale this time is unprecedented, prompting initial misconceptions of snowfall.
This occurrence has sparked renewed discussions about urban planning and industrial zoning, particularly the establishment of industrial units near residential zones. It is worth noting that while similar foam occurrences have been reported in Sidi Bernoussi before, this incident stands out in magnitude. Comparatively, it reflects a recent event in Algeria, where foam covered an entire neighborhood in Ain M’lila, although Casablanca officials assert that their situation showcases distinct characteristics, necessitating an in-depth investigation.
The emergence of white foam in Sidi Bernoussi has highlighted pressing environmental concerns and sparked an investigation into its origins. Local authorities, along with specialized teams, are examining potential links between the foam and local industries, particularly detergent manufacturing. As this situation unfolds, it raises significant issues regarding urban planning and industrial regulations in residential areas, thereby reflecting a need for a thorough and comprehensive approach to safeguarding both public health and the environment.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
