After Al Haouz, Moroccan Government Approves New Earthquake-Resistant Building Regulations

The Moroccan government approved on Thursday two decrees aimed at enhancing earthquake resistance in construction, particularly in areas affected by the recent seismic events. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting, and announced by the Ministry of National Planning, Urbanism, Housing, and City Policy.

Rabat – The Moroccan government approved on Thursday two decrees aimed at enhancing earthquake resistance in construction, particularly in areas affected by the recent seismic events. The decision was made during a cabinet meeting, and announced by the Ministry of National Planning, Urbanism, Housing, and City Policy.

The first decree, numbered 2.24.766, modifies existing regulations on earthquake-resistant construction initially established in 2002. This update comes in response to the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco on September 8 of last year, following the directives of King Mohammed VI, who emphasized the need for improved safety standards, added the statement.

The government also approved the establishment of a National Committee for Earthquake Prevention Engineering to oversee the implementation of these new guidelines. Minister Fatima Zahra Mansouri highlighted that these measures are essential for effectively managing the reconstruction of areas impacted by the recent earthquake and ensuring that new structures are better equipped to withstand seismic activity.

Mansouri pointed out that a comprehensive review of seismic zone classifications is necessary to enhance safety for all new buildings. Since the original earthquake-resistant construction code was issued, the ministry has made efforts to align its provisions with the latest scientific advancements in earthquake resilience, according to the statement.

The amendments aim to establish new engineering standards capable of effectively countering seismic forces and ultimately providing greater safety for communities.

In addition, the government is drawing from international best practices, recognizing that earthen construction can coexist with earthquake-resistant engineering if appropriate technologies and techniques are employed.

The Ministry reiterated the importance of adopting stringent regulations for buildings constructed with earth materials. This is particularly important in light of past earthquakes, including the one in the Al Hoceima region in 2004, which demonstrated the vulnerabilities of such structures.