King Mohammed VI chaired a meeting, Wednesday in Rabat, on the reconstruction and upgrading program for the Moroccan regions that were the hardest hit by Sept. 8 earthquake. An initial budget of 120 billion dirhams is earmarked for the five-year rebuilding plan.
As per the Royal office, the meeting is a continuation of two other meetings, dated Sept. 9 and 14, to develop a swift, efficient, and multi-sectoral program for the six affected regions (Marrakech, Al Haouz, Taroudant, Chichaoua, Azilal and Ouarzazate).
The central regions of Morocco have been hit recently by a violent earthquake that claimed nearly 3,000 lives, and left a trail of destruction. A large population was displaced and is currently living in temporary tents.
Over four million inhabitants will benefit from the large-scale program which provides for rehousing displaced people, rebuilding houses, overhauling infrastructure, opening up remote regions, boosting economy and employment, reducing social disparities and encouraging local initiatives.
As per the King’s instructions, each region will possess its own stock of basic necessities as tents, beds, medicines, and foodstuffs to address possible natural disasters.
The King instructed the government to implement the program while taking account of the environmental dimension and the architectural characteristics of each region.
The State budget will offer loans to finance the newly-devised plan. Local authorities, the special fund for earthquake relief and national and international donors will also contribute to the program.
Pursuant to the King’s orders, the Hassan II Fund will chip in two billion dirhams.