Rabat – The death toll of the devastating earthquake that hit Morocco on September 8 rose to 2,960 victims as of today.
Morocco’s government spokesperson announced the news today following a cabinet meeting, noting that the number of deaths jumped from 2,946 to 2,960.
Baitas also told the press that a census of damaged housing is ongoing in coordination with all concerned authorities, including the Ministry of Housing and Equipment.
He stressed that the government hopes to see the census completed by the end of October to compensate all victims affected by the earthquake.
On September 20, King Mohammed VI presided over a working session in Rabat on the reconstruction program for the regions affected by the earthquake.
With a budget of $11.6 billion, the program covers six provinces and prefectures affected by the earthquake, particularly the Al Haouz region.
The affected areas include Marrakech, Al Haouz, Taroudant, Chichaoua, Azilal, and Ouarzazate.
The program, which will benefit 4.2 million inhabitants of the earthquake-ravaged areas, aims to rehabilitate damaged infrastructure and promote socio-economic development in the affected areas.
The first goal of the program is to relocate the displaced and reconstruct their housing units.
Morocco has already announced a budget that will provide direct financial assistance to families affected by the earthquake, estimated at MAD 2,500 (243) per month.
The country plans to provide direct financial assistance estimated at $13,800 for each family whose home completely collapsed, while MAD $800 will be granted to each family whose home has partially collapsed.
The measures are part of Morocco’s proactive emergency response to tackle the earthquake crisis across the affected areas.
