The latest Royal guidelines relating to the protection of nature and Morocco's new ecological commitment do not seem to concern certain State institutions. Some associative actors, appalled by the degradation of the environment and the pollution that prevails at the gates of the industrial units of the port of Dakhla, contacted us to denounce this situation and try to save the situation. At the entrance to the port of Dakhla, the smells emanating from the sewers were foul. A few years ago, explains this associative actor who requested anonymity, the National Ports Agency had built a septic tank to collect wastewater and other filth coming from the neighbouring industrial units. The said tank, which requires periodic maintenance, was neglected from the first months that followed its inauguration. The filth accumulates and the wastewater flows directly into the bay, contaminating it and poisoning the fauna. When the port of Dakhla was built, it was intended to be in line with international standards in terms of safety and health, with pipes, one carrying drinking water supplying fire hydrants and ships and the other fuels and flammable materials. Today, only the fuel pipeline is functional. The one provided for water is out of service. This port, where several dozen ships are moored, has become dependent on the intervention of the city's firefighters in the event of a fire. With the lack of lighting and the darkness that covers a large part of the port, stray dogs sow terror and attack anyone who tries to venture there. This situation is also exploited by gangs of criminals.
Environment 20 Jan 2014 2 min read
The spectre of an ecological disaster hangs over the port of Dakhla

