A general strike in Om Laarayes, Tunisia, closed schools and businesses in response to deteriorating infrastructure and a fatal road accident. The strike, called by the URT labor union, highlighted community frustrations over inadequate public transport and healthcare. Despite its phosphate wealth, the town remains underdeveloped, reflecting broader social and economic hardships faced by many inland areas in Tunisia.
On Thursday, the mining town of Om Laarayes in Tunisia witnessed a general strike, initiated by the regional URT labor union, part of the UGTT trade federation. This strike resulted in the closure of schools and businesses, responding to the community’s grievances over deteriorating infrastructure and healthcare facilities. The unrest was exacerbated by a recent tragic road accident that resulted in six fatalities and nine injuries, igniting public outrage regarding the town’s neglected state.
URT secretary-general Mohamed Sghaier Miraoui remarked on the dire situation, stating that inadequate infrastructure and deficient public transport have rendered the town vulnerable to such tragic events. He emphasized the poor condition of local healthcare, highlighting that the hospital is insufficiently equipped for emergencies and the morgue lacks proper facilities. Despite its wealth in phosphate resources, Om Laarayes, with a population of 40,000, remains underdeveloped and overlooked.
Miraoui noted that, “Our town is a mining city and has natural resources. It should be among the main regions with infrastructure.” The disparity between Om Laarayes and wealthier coastal cities draws attention to the ongoing socioeconomic challenges faced by many inland areas in Tunisia. This dissatisfaction has led to consistent protests since the 2011 revolution, which resulted in the ousting of former ruler Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.
Moreover, in the mining hub of Gafsa, residents are ardently advocating for enhanced infrastructure and job opportunities through the revitalization of phosphate production. Tunisia’s phosphate output has declined significantly from eight million tons in 2010, with current production levels falling to about half of that amount due to insufficient investment and persistent social unrest. These phosphates remain a crucial element in fertilizers, highlighting the importance of addressing these community concerns for future development.
The strike in Om Laarayes underscores the pressing need for infrastructural improvements and enhanced healthcare services in the region. The community’s frustration, particularly following a tragic accident, emphasizes the significant challenges faced by this underdeveloped mining town. Moreover, the disparity illustrated between Om Laarayes and wealthier coastal areas highlights broader socioeconomic issues that require urgent attention. To revitalize its phosphate industry and improve living conditions, there must be a concerted effort to address the demands of the local population.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
