The Ministry of Emergency and Disaster Affairs, in coordination with Hama Governorate, launched a large-scale campaign to remove over 500,000 cubic meters of rubble from areas heavily damaged during the conflict. The operation will target main and secondary roads, public squares and government buildings in the towns of Latamneh, Mahardah, Suqaylabiyah, Suran and Salamiyah.
Foundation for Reconstruction and Facilitating Returns
Emergency and Disaster Management Minister Raed al-Saleh described the campaign as a foundational step toward rehabilitating infrastructure across the northern Hama countryside and the Ghab Plain. “The campaign will continue until rubble is cleared from all villages and towns,” he said, adding the effort will enable other ministries to restore schools, health centers and essential public services.
Saleh said the initiative is also intended to support the safe and voluntary return of displaced families currently living in camps. He noted that launching the campaign in Latamneh carries symbolic significance, recognizing the hardships endured by its residents during the conflict.
Hama Governor Abdurahman Suhayan said the campaign prioritizes areas which sustained extensive destruction. He emphasized that clearing debris is a necessary step toward reconstruction and enabling displaced residents to return with dignity.
Restoring Mobility and Services
Muhammad Sheikh Kadour, director of Emergency and Disaster Management in Hama, said the immediate objective is to reopen roads and public spaces to restore normal movement for residents and vehicles. “Improving access is essential to delivering basic services to returning families and will encourage others still in camps to return,” he said.
Abdulnasser al-Saleh, head of the Latamneh City Council, highlighted the economic impact of the campaign, noting clearing roads will facilitate the movement of agricultural machinery, a critical component of the local economy, and create conditions for additional service projects. Large parts of the Hama countryside continue to face extensive damage to homes, roads and public infrastructure, underscoring the scale of reconstruction efforts still required.
