mesures spéciales pour la continuité des services publics à Alger
Organizational and Security Measures for Aïd El Fitr in Algiers
As Aïd El Fitr approaches, the Algiers wilaya has announced comprehensive organizational and security measures aimed at ensuring the continuity of public services and meeting the needs of citizens during the festive period. These preparations were detailed during a press conference held by various officials to outline the planned actions across essential sectors, including commerce, transportation, health, energy, and hygiene, alongside increased security provisions.
Commerce Initiatives
Abdelwahab Harkas, the director of commerce for the wilaya, announced that 4,564 economic operators and merchants have been mobilized to guarantee a steady supply of essential goods. This includes 582 bakeries, 1,939 general food stores, as well as retailers in various other sectors like cafes and tire sales. Additionally, 8 flour mills and 6 dairies will be operational. To ensure compliance with the supply program, 169 monitoring agents will supervise merchant activities throughout the capital.
Transportation Enhancements
In the realm of transport, Hocine Amrane from the transportation department outlined extensive measures taken by the public urban and suburban transport establishment (ETUSA). A total of 189 buses will operate on 182 routes on the first day of Aïd from 6:30 AM to 7:00 PM, with an additional 23 buses serving night lines until 12:40 AM. On the subsequent two days, 306 buses will be deployed in the morning, supplemented by the same nighttime service.
Special routes will also be designated to transport worshippers to Djamaâ El Djazaïr for Aïd prayers, departing from main hubs such as Place du 1er Mai and Place des Martyrs, as well as from suburban locations like Khemis El Khechna. For visits to cemeteries, 10 buses will service five key routes from central stations to El Alia cemetery and others.
Furthermore, the National Railway Transport Company (SNTF) will introduce special train services from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and the metro will operate from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Tram services will start from stations Ruisseau and Dergana at 5:30 AM.
Healthcare Preparedness
On the healthcare front, Lahlali Lahlali, the health director of the wilaya, confirmed that medical teams will be on standby at emergency centers and polyclinics. Moreover, 63 pharmacies will be on-call to ensure the availability of medications and medical supplies for residents.
Social Welfare Initiatives
In a bid to support vulnerable families, Dassi Mokhtaria, director of social activities and solidarity, announced the distribution of 850 outfits to over 350 needy families, alongside organizing circumcision operations for 240 children. These actions reflect a commitment to humanitarian support during the festive period.
Energy Supply Assurance
Abdelghani Aireche, the energy and mines director of Algiers, outlined steps to maintain reliable electricity and gas supplies, along with the distribution of petroleum products. Teams have been mobilized for emergency interventions in case of outages, ensuring citizens face minimal disruptions during Aïd.
Hygiene Measures
In terms of public hygiene, two companies, Netcom and Extranet, have established specialized cleaning programs for neighborhoods and public areas. This initiative involves the mobilization of approximately 6,500 workers and 400 various-sized sanitation trucks to ensure cleanliness across the capital during the celebrations.
Security Arrangements
The security aspect has been addressed by Captain Rachida Aib from the national gendarmerie, presenting a comprehensive security plan that includes intensified checks at roadblocks and increased presence in public worship areas and other crowded places. Amir Chergui, spokesperson for the Algiers Provincial Police, also detailed collaborative strategies to safeguard citizens and their properties, deploying foot and mobile patrols, enhancing camera surveillance, and ensuring a strong police presence in public areas.
Conclusion
The measures announced for Aïd El Fitr by the Algiers wilaya reflect a proactive and integrated approach across multiple sectors to ensure a safe, secure, and festive atmosphere for all citizens. By coordinating efforts in commerce, transportation, healthcare, social support, energy, hygiene, and security, the wilaya aims to meet the challenges of the holiday season effectively. With a comprehensive plan in place, officials are positioned to uphold public service continuity and contribute to a smooth celebration of this important religious occasion.
