A mysterious foam covered streets in Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi, coinciding with heavy rains. Authorities are investigating its origins, suspecting links to nearby detergent manufacturing. This unprecedented incident raises public health and environmental concerns, igniting discussions on industrial zoning and waste management practices.
In Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi district, a significant ecological incident occurred when vast amounts of white foam inundated several streets, disrupting local traffic. This phenomenon emerged amid heavy rains following an extended drought in Morocco. Residents described the foam as having a scent reminiscent of cleaning products, which raised alarms and drew the attention of local officials.
In reaction to this disturbing development, district president Said Sabri announced the establishment of a special commission to probe the origin of the foam. Authorities have swiftly organized specialized teams to gather and analyze samples from the affected areas, keeping all investigative possibilities open.
Ahmed Afilal, the vice-president responsible for sanitation in Casablanca, highlighted growing concerns regarding the environmental impact of such events. He warned about the potential risks posed to public health and the coastal ecosystem specifically in Sidi Bernoussi and Ain Harrouda.
The Regional Multiservice Company Casablanca-Settat (SRM-CS) has launched its own investigation into the foam’s cause, working alongside other authorities. Preliminary assessments suggest a possible connection to a local detergent manufacturing plant that may have improperly released industrial waste.
Experts indicate that the foam’s emergence may be due to various factors, including excess surfactants from cleaning agents, untreated waste discharges, decaying organic material, malfunctioning treatment facilities, or filamentous bacteria. Local residents remarked on the unusual scale of this incident compared to previous occurrences, with some confusing the foam for unexpected snowfall.
This event has prompted renewed discussions on the implications of urban planning and the necessity for stricter zoning regulations between industrial and residential areas. Local officials acknowledge that while white foam has appeared before, the current situation is unprecedented in scope. A striking parallel can be drawn to a recent incident in Algeria where similar foam blanketed a neighborhood, although Casablanca’s case has distinct characteristics that warrant further examination.
The emergence of white foam in Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi has raised considerable environmental and public health concerns. A joint commission has been formed to investigate the cause, which may relate to improper industrial practices. This unprecedented event highlights the critical need for reviewing urban planning and zoning policies to prevent similar ecological crises in the future. Similar incidents have occurred regionally, emphasizing the broader implications of industrial waste management.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
