A large amount of white foam flooded the streets of Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi district, coinciding with heavy rainfall. Authorities are investigating the incident, which raises public health and environmental concerns. Potential links to a nearby detergent manufacturing facility have been suggested, with this event reigniting discussions on industrial zoning.
On Tuesday night, an unusual phenomenon occurred in the Sidi Bernoussi district of Casablanca, where extensive white foam covered numerous streets, causing traffic disruptions and raising environmental concerns. This incident coincided with heavy rainfall affecting Casablanca and other Moroccan cities after years of drought.
Witnesses reported a distinct cleaning product odor emanating from the foam, which quickly spread through streets and immobilized vehicles. In response to this unprecedented event, Said Sabri, the president of Sidi Bernoussi, announced the establishment of a joint commission to investigate the origin of this mysterious substance.
Specialized teams were deployed to gather samples for comprehensive analysis, as authorities remain open to all possibilities regarding the foam’s source. Ahmed Afilal, the vice-president in charge of sanitation and liquid waste management for the Casablanca municipality, highlighted that this phenomenon has raised significant concerns in recent months, posing serious risks to public health and the coastal environment in Sidi Bernoussi and Ain Harrouda.
The Regional Multiservice Company Casablanca-Settat (SRM-CS), responsible for the city’s liquid sanitation, has commenced its own investigation in conjunction with relevant authorities. Initial evaluations suggest a potential link between the foam and a nearby detergent manufacturing facility that may have improperly discharged industrial waste.
Experts propose various factors contributing to this phenomenon, such as excess surfactants from detergents, untreated industrial or domestic discharges, decomposing organic matter, malfunctioning treatment plants, or filamentous bacteria presence. While residents recall similar incidents during heavy rainfall, they noted that the scale of this particular event is unprecedented.
Many individuals initially mistook the substance for unexpected snowfall, further fueling confusion in the neighborhood. This incident has reignited discussions regarding urban planning and industrial zoning, particularly concerning the placement of industrial units within residential areas. Authorities confirmed that Sidi Bernoussi has experienced reports of white foam in the past, albeit never at such a scale.
This event draws parallels to a similar occurrence in Algeria last month, where foam enveloped the Ain M’lila neighborhood. However, Casablanca officials believe their situation possesses unique aspects that necessitate a thorough investigation.
In conclusion, the alarming appearance of white foam in Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi district raises serious environmental and public health concerns. Local authorities are undertaking thorough investigations to determine the source of this phenomenon, which appears to be linked to industrial activities. While residents have witnessed similar incidents before, the sheer magnitude of this event has prompted renewed calls for responsible urban planning and industrial regulations in residential areas.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
