Ministerial Delegation Confronts Cross-Border Oued Mouilah Pollution

A high-level Algerian ministerial delegation, acting on directives from President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, arrived in Tlemcen to assess and address the serious pollution affecting Oued Mouilah. Led by Minister of State and Minister of Interior and Local Authorities Brahim Merad, the delegation also included Minister of Environment and Quality of Life Kaouter Krikou, Minister of Hydraulics Lounès Bouzegza, Minister of Health Mohamed Seddik Ait Messaoudene, and Minister of Communication Mohamed Bouslimani. Their mission is to evaluate the situation and implement necessary measures to protect the region's water resources, particularly the vital Hammam Boughrara dam, which is a primary water source for the area.

Expert findings indicate that the pollution in Oued Mouilah originates from industrial waste in Morocco. Specialists from Tlemcen University have confirmed that industrial units discharge their effluents into Oued Isli, a waterway that crosses the border and merges with Oued Mouilah. These pollutants, identified as industrial and organic contaminants including heavy metals such as cadmium and lead, subsequently flow into the Hammam Boughrara dam basin on Algerian territory. A prior commission of experts from various sectors had already observed the detrimental effects of this cross-border contamination.

The accumulation of these pollutants presents a substantial threat to water quality, aquatic life, and the ecological balance of the region, with potential negative repercussions for public health and agricultural activities. Local authorities and citizens have expressed deep concern regarding the situation. The government's swift response, mandated by the President, underscores its commitment to safeguarding Algeria's water assets and ensuring environmental protection. The delegation is tasked with taking urgent steps to confront this challenge and mitigate its impact.