Authorities Investigate Mysterious Foam Flooding in Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi
In Sidi Bernoussi, Casablanca, a large quantity of white foam disrupted streets and raised environmental concerns. Authorities are investigating the phenomenon, possibly linked to industrial waste discharge, while addressing public health risks. This incident highlights ongoing issues of urban planning and industrial zoning in residential neighborhoods.
In Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi district, an unusual event has occurred, where vast quantities of white foam covered numerous streets, causing traffic disruptions and raising environmental alarms. This phenomenon emerged on Tuesday night amid heavy rainfall affecting Casablanca and other Moroccan cities after a prolonged drought period.
Witnesses noted a distinctive odor resembling a cleaning product emanating from the foam, which rapidly spread, immobilizing vehicles traversing the area. In light of this unprecedented occurrence, Said Sabri, the president of the Sidi Bernoussi district, declared the establishment of a joint commission to investigate the origins of this mysterious foam.
Authorities have dispatched specialized teams to gather samples for comprehensive analysis, keeping all hypotheses open. Ahmed Afilal, vice-president of the Casablanca municipality responsible for sanitation and liquid waste, expressed growing concerns regarding this phenomenon, highlighting the notable risks it poses to public health and the coastal environment in Sidi Bernoussi and Ain Harrouda.
The Regional Multiservice Company Casablanca-Settat (SRM-CS), tasked with liquid sanitation, initiated its investigation in conjunction with other relevant authorities. Preliminary assessments suggest the foam could be linked to a nearby detergent manufacturing facility, potentially discharging industrial waste without compliance to safety standards.
Experts propose various theories regarding the foam’s origin, such as high levels of surfactants from detergents, untreated industrial or household effluents, decomposing organic matter, malfunctioning treatment plants, or filamentous bacteria. Local residents recalled past smaller incidents of foam during heavy rainfall but acknowledged the unprecedented scale of this event.
Some residents initially confused the white foam for unexpected snowfall, adding to the surrounding bewilderment. This situation has reignited discussions about urban planning and the industrial zoning of factories in residential neighborhoods. While not an infrequent occurrence, the magnitude of this incident distinguishes it from previous foam appearances reported by locals in the area.
This incident bears resemblance to a recent similar occurrence in Ain M’lila, Algeria, where foam engulfed an entire neighborhood. However, officials in Casablanca insist that their case demonstrates unique features that necessitate thorough investigation.
The recent foam flooding in Casablanca’s Sidi Bernoussi district has raised both environmental and public health concerns, prompting investigations by local authorities. The event, resulting from possible industrial discharges, points to implications for urban planning and residential safety. As investigations continue, residents remain vigilant due to previous smaller-scale incidents, highlighting the need for responsible industrial practices and effective urban coordination.
Original Source: www.moroccoworldnews.com
