News
12 Mar 2012
4 min read
The "barcassiers" of Bouregreg: A trade in peril
The Bouregreg river ferrymen have been ensuring the crossing of passengers between the two banks of Rabat-Salé for centuries. At present, their activities are hindered by the construction sites initiated on-site.
The daily income of the Bouregreg ferrymen is between 20 and 40 dirhams. A paltry sum to support their families. The social situation of the "barcassiers" (ferrymen) leaves much to be desired, due to the decline in their activities in recent years and the absence of any support to help them overcome life's hardships. "Things have changed a lot. Before the valley development project, we had a good income. We could provide for our families' needs. Now, that is no longer the case. What can we do with 20 or 30 DH a day?" expresses a young ferryman, looking as disappointed as can be. "Eight cases of divorce have occurred among us. We are unable to support our families," another ferryman, a father of two and divorced, confides to us.Most of the "barcassiers," if not all, are married and have children (2 to 3). Since their early childhood, these boatmen have always been attracted to the Boureg…
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