Infrastructure and Development Issues in Zarzis
The city of Zarzis is plagued by poor basic infrastructure. The roads are almost impassable, sidewalks are in a deplorable state, and public lighting only works during the day, shutting off at night. The DHU equipment, which is supposed to clean the wadis and protect the city from flooding, has not yet been put into action. Water leaks are widespread, despite citizens' complaints. At any given time, residents are seen piling up trash, dead leaves, and construction materials along the sides of the road.
Struggles with Vendors and Urban Planning
The secretary general of the commune and the municipal police are trying to chase away street vendors who set up shop in the city center, selling fruits, fish, and palm juice without authorization. However, they are unable to permanently remove them, as these vendors simply change locations and return to their posts a few days later.
Nostalgia for Better Days
Furthermore, the four oldest and largest hotel units (Club Sangho, Oasis Maritime, Gektys, and Zarzis Hotel) are closed and in ruins. When will they be renovated? We noticed tourists from France, Switzerland, and Germany standing near the entrance of what was once a hotel, looking and reminiscing. Some were even moved to tears, asking about the staff with whom they had formed friendships.
Upcoming Projects
Three highly anticipated projects are in the works. The old hospital, located in the city center and currently in ruins, is set to be renovated and will serve as a day hospital. Initially, the ministry allocated 7 million dinars for the project, but recently, the Minister of Health announced that the allocated amount is approximately 3 million dinars. The call for tenders will be launched soon.
The second project concerns the technical inspection center. With a considerable number of vehicles in Zarzis, residents currently have to travel to Médenine, Ben Guerdane, or Djerba to pass the technical inspection or verify their vehicle's chassis number. However, the reserved land is ready, and the Ministry of Transport has given its agreement, along with the budget.
Finally, the barracks, which currently occupy a strategic location of several hectares on the beach, will be transferred to another location within the delegation, as we have officially been informed.
