DR ‹ › The return of residents displaced by the devastating floods is now beginning to take shape. In a statement issued on Saturday, the Ministry of the Interior announced the launch of operations to ensure a «safe and gradual» return of evacuees across several municipalities in the provinces of Larache, Kenitra, Sidi Kacem, and Sidi Slimane. These areas were declared disaster zones by the Prime Minister after the floods caused widespread destruction. Although weather conditions have markedly improved, authorities stressed that residents will only be allowed to return once «adequate safety conditions» are in place and essential services have been restored. Since February 7, 2026, debris clearance operations have been ongoing in neighborhoods, villages, and accessible areas where the hydrological situation allows. Work is also underway to restore drinking water, electricity, sanitation, and telecommunications networks. Damaged roads and access routes are being reopened to ensure proper sanitary and environmental conditions ahead of residents' return. The ministry has drawn up a tailored action plan for each affected province, aimed at gradually restoring public services in line with developments on the ground and ensuring the continuity of basic services as families move back. A dedicated logistical framework will support the return process, specifying transportation arrangements, designated routes, and a phased plan to guarantee smooth operations and public safety. Local authorities will progressively announce the neighborhoods and villages concerned through official statements and multiple communication channels, including SMS notifications sent directly to affected residents. However, the Ministry of the Interior urged residents in areas not yet cleared for return to refrain from entering the affected zones until an official green light is given. Checkpoints will be set up at entry points to restrict access to authorized individuals only. In its statement, the ministry praised the "strong sense of responsibility and civic spirit" shown by residents in the affected provinces, affirming that state services will remain fully mobilized until this exceptional phase is brought to a close.
