Rehabilitation and reconstruction in Al Haouz: Balancing earthquake resilience and architectural heritage.

Life is progressively returning to the villages affected by the devastating earthquake that struck the Al Haouz province more than a week ago. Registered 7 on the Richter scale and causing extensive damage across several regions. Nearly all habitations, whether partially or totally, were affected.

Let us warmly applaud the professionalism and significant efforts exhibited by the Moroccan authorities on the ground to ensure the smooth progress of the rescue and search operations for survivors. This mobilization has earned praise from rescue teams from other countries such as United Kingdom, Spain, Qatar and United Arab Emirates.

For the current moment, survivors are being provided with temporary housing while awaiting the implementation of permanent one. Thus, under the high directives of His Majesty King Mohammed VI may God assist him, the operation for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of homes that have been partially or totally damaged will start as soon as possible.

In this way, the reconstruction in these regions is not just about rebuilding homes but also about preserving its unique architectural heritage and respecting its environmental characteristics.

Building structures that can withstand future seismic activity is of paramount importance. In order to achieve this, reconstruction efforts must adhere to modern earthquake-resistant building techniques and codes. Therefore, engineers and architects must work together to design and construct homes that prioritize safety without compromising aesthetics, and also without ignoring the involvement of the local community in the reconstruction process. In fact, their input, knowledge, and preferences should be considered when planning and designing the new homes. This ensures that the rebuilt structures are not only earthquake-resistant but also aligned with the needs and aspirations of the residents.

To preserve the architectural heritage of these villages that have been the preferred destination for many national and international tourists, reconstruction should incorporate traditional design elements and techniques. Skilled artisans and craftsmen from the region should be engaged to ensure that the new structures reflect the area’s rich cultural heritage. This approach not only maintains the authenticity of regions but also provides employment opportunities for the local community that overnight have lost everything they own.

Certainly, the earthquake of the night of September 8 has posed a significant challenge, but it also presents an opportunity to rebuild the region stronger and more resilient than before. Balancing the need for earthquake-resistant housing with the preservation of architectural heritage and environmental characteristics is a complex task. However, with careful planning, sustainable practices, and community involvement, it is possible to create new villages that honor its past while preparing for a more secure future.

Together, we can ensure that these wonderful regions continue to thrive and captivate both residents and visitors for generations to come.