Rabat – Morocco is launching a “complete” census to detect illegal wells posing a threat to the safety and security of citizens and residents.
The action came as an emergency plan following the tragic Rayan affair. On February 1, five-year-old boy Rayan fell into a 32-meter well.
After spending five days trapped in the hole and — despite collective rescue efforts from rescuers, authorities, and volunteers, Rayan died on February 5.
The death of Rayan received an outpouring of solidarity but also put the spotlight on illegal and dangerous wells that threaten people’s safety.
Abdelaziz Zerouali, the director of Water Research and Planning at the Ministry of Equipment, said that Hydraulic Basin Agencies will carry out the census to detect all illegal wells.
Zerouali said that the Ministry of Equipment has provided strict instructions to all basin agencies to detect abandoned wells.
Water authorities will carry out the census and will send formal notices to take the necessary measures to protect people and animals at risk.
The water authority official emphasized that the procedure will take place with the possibility of legal proceedings against any offender responsible for putting people’s lives in danger.
The ministry will also hold consultation and awareness meetings with professionals.
The director of the basin agencies recalled that the drilling operation of wells should take place in accordance with the water law 15.36 and Decree 2.07.96.
“Anyone who wants to dig a well must submit an application available on the website of the Hydraulic Basin Agency to which they belong,” he said.
After a phase of study and investigation by a specialized commission is completed, authorities grant drilling permission if all required legal conditions are met.
Read Also: A Timeline of Rayan’s Rescue Operation
The Rayan case has prompted many other countries to take action against abandoned wells.
Many countries announced actions against abandoned and illegal wells, including Saudi Arabia.
Following the Rayan case, Saudi Arabia announced the launch of a campaign to fortify and secure thousands of wells.
