A devastating structural failure in Morocco has claimed at least 22 lives, casting a grim shadow over a city preparing for the global spotlight.
Authorities in Fez are launching an urgent inquiry into the disaster, focusing on suspected violations of building codes. The tragedy unfolded late Tuesday in the Al-Mustaqbal neighborhood, where two residential buildings crumbled to the ground.
Rescuers managed to pull 16 survivors from the rubble. However, the search for victims continued well into the morning.
Illegal Construction Suspected in Fez Building Collapse
Preliminary reports indicate that unauthorized vertical expansion played a fatal role in the catastrophe. Investigators believe the structures were originally permitted for only two stories. Despite this limit, builders allegedly added two additional floors.
Sources close to the probe suggest this unapproved weight compromised the foundation. Consequently, the first building gave way, triggering a domino effect that brought down the adjacent property.
This incident highlights the dangers of “self-construction” zones. In these districts, oversight is often lax, and substandard materials are frequently used to cut costs.
Celebration Turns to Tragedy
The timing of the collapse was particularly heartbreaking. One of the homes was hosting an Aqiqah, a traditional celebration welcoming a newborn baby.
Suddenly, the festivities ended in chaos as the concrete buckled. Emergency teams are currently using heavy machinery alongside hand tools to clear the site. Simultaneously, officials have ordered the evacuation of nearby properties to prevent further loss of life.
Sports Glory vs. Infrastructure Decay
This disaster strikes just weeks before Fez is scheduled to host matches for the Africa Cup of Nations. Furthermore, the city is a designated venue for the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
While the government invests heavily in stadiums and sporting facilities, critics argue that residential safety is being ignored. The glossy preparations for international guests stand in stark contrast to the reality in districts like Al-Mustaqbal.
Residents Demand Action
Public frustration is mounting. This is the second major incident in the city this year; a similar collapse in May killed 10 people.
Residents are calling for immediate accountability and rigorous inspections. Touria, a neighbor who witnessed the aftermath, expressed the community’s fear.
“We want the authorities to inspect the other buildings, so that there is no repetition of what has happened,” she demanded.
Historically, protests have erupted over similar issues. Demonstrators previously took to the streets, accusing officials of prioritizing prestige projects over the basic safety of the housing sector.
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