Moroccan City Imposes Lockdown as COVID-19 Cases Surge in Mohammedia

From now on, movement as well as entry and exit to Mohammedia will be subject to the issuance of a special permit issued by the local authorities. Gatherings in public spaces are also prohibited. Businesses, markets, supermarkets and snack bars will have to close at 10 p.m. and restaurants at 11 p.m. Public gardens will be closed and beaches will also remain closed. This will also be the case for game rooms, sports halls and neighborhood fields. In this same context, the capacity of the various means of public transport is limited to 50% but also, the prohibition of the circulation of buses from Casablanca to Mohammedia. There will also be strict control of compliance with distancing measures and the wearing of protective masks, according to a statement from the prefecture.

According to the same press release, access to some neighborhoods has been restricted in the commune of Mohammedia. These are Hay Hassani 2 (Blocks D and C), Gay Nassr, Hay Errachidia 3 etc. Other neighborhoods in the commune of Chellalat are also affected, such as Chellal blocks C and D, the Assafa B and D housing estate and Hay Fath 1 in the commune of Béni Yakhlef. A special permit will be required to travel to these neighborhoods.

It has also been decided to close businesses, cafes and restaurants in these neighborhoods daily at 8 p.m. and the closure of local markets, hammams and hairdressing and beauty salons at 4 p.m. For schools, it has been decided to maintain face-to-face teaching, but the choice is left to parents or guardians of students while observing the evolution of the health situation in each establishment.