Clearing the massive amounts of rubble left in Gaza after the recent conflict with Israel could take three to five years if sufficient funding and equipment are secured, according to Palestinian Public Works and Housing Minister Ahed Bseiso.
Speaking to the Palestinian News Agency (WAFA) on Thursday, Bseiso emphasized that the timeframe hinges on obtaining the necessary resources, including specialized equipment for locating explosives, as well as the means to transport and recycle debris.
“Our ministry is coordinating with various organizations, including the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), to reopen roads and manage the rubble removal process,” Bseiso said. He noted that the next phase will focus on clearing debris from 150 public buildings, such as schools, hospitals, and mosques, and further work on reopening vital roads.
Bseiso revealed that a comprehensive study based on 250,000 damage reports submitted by residents has been completed. A task force has been established to address the extensive damage in both the West Bank and Gaza.
“Approximately 400,000 housing units have been completely or partially destroyed,” he estimated. “We need to provide 200,000 new units in coordination with donors to meet the urgent housing needs.”
The ministry plans to collaborate with partners to repair partially damaged homes and offer temporary housing solutions for those whose homes were entirely demolished. Families currently staying with relatives will receive financial assistance, Bseiso added.
The United Nations estimates that more than 50 million tonnes of rubble need to be removed in Gaza, home to over two million people, at an estimated cost of around $1.2 billion.
In its first assessment following the ceasefire, Gaza’s Government Media Office reported that 88 percent of the Gaza Strip was damaged, with initial losses exceeding $38 billion.
