Morocco's premier announces construction of dam in flood hit city

Morocco's Prime Minister, Driss Jettou disclosed in rabat on Thursday a government plan to build, as of next year, a dam in Mohammedia city, 60 km South Rabat, to contain flash floods caused by heavy rain that hit several regions of the country claiming more that thirty fatalities and considerable material damage.

Jettou, who was answering questions by heads of parliamentary groups and union's representatives on the government's program said that Karkouz Dam, which will require 230 million dirhams budget (about US$ 23 million), will help pool 30 million cubic metres of El Maleh river.

The works will be undertaken by Casablanca urban community and Lydec company, added Jettou, stressing the government's will to take all necessary measures to fend off future disasters, in conformity with the king's instructions.

He also extended condolences and sympathy to the victims' families, commanding the efforts by the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity to bring immediate aid and funding to flood-stricken families.