The metropolis of Casablanca, one of the cities most affected by pollution in Morocco, is preparing to establish a “cleanliness police” with the aim of sanctioning uncivil behavior. According to an article from Hespress this initiative aims to remedy the practices of citizens and informal recyclers, known as “bouara”, who throw their trash in the streets, causing growing discontent among residents.
Sources close to the municipal council revealed that this system, which constitutes an administrative policy, will be based on the municipal decree in force concerning public health, cleanliness and environmental protection. Although this decree was adopted under the former governance of the Justice and Development Party (PJD), it had not yet been applied until now.
The objective is to improve the image of the economic capital in the run-up to major sporting events such as the final of the African Cup of Nations and the World Cup. Hespress reports that the municipality aims to improve the quality of life in its neighborhoods and erase the negative image associated with urban pollution.
This cleanliness police, in collaboration with the General Directorate of National Security (DGSN), will carry out patrols in all districts to identify and punish offenders. Recordings from police headquarters surveillance cameras will be used to identify acts of incivility, such as the dumping of waste outside designated areas.
The modifications provided for by the municipal decree amount to 100 dirhams, with increases in the event of a repeat offense. Hespress underlines that the municipality of Casablanca will finance 70% of the budget necessary for this initiative, with the Ministry of the Interior covering the remaining 30%.
By establishing this system, the city hopes not only to reduce pollution but also to meet the expectations of residents, who want to see their neighborhoods become cleaner and better maintained.
Source : Hespress
Morocco
