Turning the Sidi Moumen Landfill into a Lively 12-Hectare Recreational space

Saturday 27 April 2024 - 10:35

A new leisure destination has recently been inaugurated at the Sidi Moumen landfill site in Casablanca, marking a significant contribution to ecosystem preservation, reduction of carbon emissions, and improvement of air quality.

Under the presidency of Mohamed Mhidia, the Wali of the Casablanca-Settat region, and in the presence of Nabila Rmili, President of the Casablanca Municipal Council, along with other elected representatives and advisors, the opening ceremony of this space took place.

Named "Hadiqat Al Hadaba Al Khadraa" (Green Hill Park), this project is the result of collaboration between the Casablanca Municipality, the Ministry of Energy Transition and Sustainable Development, the Wilaya of the Casablanca-Settat region, and the Sidi Bernoussi district prefecture. It has transformed the oldest landfill into a dedicated recreational and sports area spanning 12 hectares.

With 32 different plant varieties, this site has achieved a 50% reduction in water consumption through optimized management practices, including a 20% share of solar energy in its total energy supply. Additionally, the park's vegetation absorbs 235 tons of carbon dioxide annually.

According to data provided by the Municipality, 58% of the park's total area is now covered with greenery, providing 5,000 square meters of shaded space through the trees. Rising 15 meters above sea level and overlooking Sidi Moumen, this green plateau was developed with an investment of approximately 19 million dirhams.

In a statement to the press, Mayor Nabila Rmili highlighted the various stages of the project, starting with the rehabilitation of the former landfill to make it accessible to the local population. She also expressed the Municipality's intention to create a park in every neighborhood, with the goal of increasing the total area of green spaces in the economic capital from 500 to 1,000 hectares.

Furthermore, she emphasized the Municipality's commitment to environmental protection, including measures such as the use of renewable energy for public lighting and the recycling of treated wastewater for irrigation.

It is worth noting that the local development company "Casa Baia" oversaw the transformation of the Sidi Moumen landfill into a recreational and entertainment space, with the project being approved by the Municipal Council during its regular session in February 2022.