In the bustling urban landscape of Casablanca, Morocco, where over three million residents navigate the complexities of city life, a new study is shedding light on the often-overlooked underground world that supports it. Led by Ikram Loukili from the Laboratory of Applied Geology, Geo-Informatics and Environment at the Faculty of Sciences of Ben Msick, this research dives deep into the geological and geotechnical properties of the city’s soil, aiming to bolster sustainable urban development.
The study, recently published in the journal ‘Land’, highlights the pressing need for urban planners to understand the subsurface conditions before breaking ground on new projects. With urban sprawl threatening to consume the city’s green spaces and agricultural lands, Loukili’s team has harnessed Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geostatistical techniques to create a comprehensive database of the area’s soil conditions. This innovative approach not only saves time and resources but also paves the way for smarter land use decisions.
“By integrating geological and geotechnical data, we’re providing city managers with the tools they need to make informed decisions,” Loukili explains. “Understanding the bearing capacity and depth of the substratum is crucial for planning vertical structures that can accommodate the city’s growing population without compromising our precious agricultural zones.”
The findings reveal that the soil in Casablanca possesses moderate bearing capacities, capable of supporting significant loads. This insight is a game changer for urban planning, as it encourages a shift toward vertical expansion rather than horizontal sprawl. Such a shift not only preserves the city’s dwindling green spaces but also protects the surrounding agricultural belt, which is vital for local food production.
This research is particularly relevant for the agriculture sector, as it underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between urban growth and agricultural sustainability. “If we don’t pay attention to our underground resources, we risk losing our agricultural heritage,” Loukili warns. “Our work aims to ensure that urban development does not come at the expense of the land that feeds us.”
With urbanization at an all-time high, Casablanca faces a land crisis that could have long-lasting implications if not addressed. The study advocates for a proactive approach, suggesting that city planners utilize the newly developed geotechnical database to streamline project planning and reduce unnecessary costs associated with traditional geological surveys.
As urban planners and decision-makers begin to embrace these insights, the potential for a more sustainable future becomes increasingly tangible. By prioritizing vertical development and leveraging data-driven approaches, Casablanca could set a precedent for other rapidly urbanizing cities striving to balance growth with environmental stewardship.
In a time when the impacts of urbanization are felt more than ever, this research serves as a crucial reminder of the intricate relationship between our built environment and the natural world beneath our feet. As Loukili aptly puts it, “Smart urban planning begins with a solid understanding of the ground we stand on.” With the right tools and insights, Casablanca can navigate its urban challenges while safeguarding its agricultural legacy for generations to come.