Morocco offers earthquake reconstruction aid to 51,300 households

Morocco has offered 1 billion dirhams so far in reconstruction aid to 51,300 households hose houses were totally or partially destroyed in the September 7 quake that hit the High Atlas.

The government has offered 20,000 dirhams in a first stage aid to families to start rebuilding their homes and started disbursing a second batch of 40,000 dirhams, the head of the government’s office said in a statement.

Morocco has promised to offer 140,000 for totally demolished homes and 80,000 for partly destroyed ones following the quake that killed nearly 3000 people.

Currently, 8694 homes are being built with 42,047 reconstruction permits awarded as authorities continue removing the rubble in many villages.

Quake-stricken families are receiving 2500 dirhams monthly for a year.

Morocco said it would spend $12 billion on reconstruction and the upgrade of infrastructure in the quake-hit areas.