Casablanca to Phase Out Palm Trees for Biodiversity-Friendly Alternatives

Salima Belmokadem has finally been received by Mohamed Mhidia, Wali of the Casablanca-Settat region. An achievement after two years of repeated requests to the authorities.

"The Wali is the first official of the economic capital to listen to us with so much attention," said Belmokadem. This turnaround comes in particular after the broadcast of an urgent appeal to save Boulevard Zerktouni, an emblematic artery of Casablanca.

Faced with the urgency of the situation, Mhidiya has made strong commitments. He has thus decided to ban the planting of Washingtonia palm trees in Casablanca, the latter often being pointed out for hindering the movement of pedestrians and harming biodiversity. The palm trees already in place will be gradually uprooted, particularly on Boulevard Sidi Abderrahmane where they have recently been planted.

For Boulevard Zerktouni, the Wali has promised to preserve the central axis and plant as many trees as possible, depending on availability. A decision welcomed by many Moroccans on social networks.