Clearing Rubble In Gaza May Take 15 Years

The destruction in Gaza is a monumental tragedy, with the UN estimating it could take 15 years to clear the 40 million tonnes of rubble left by Israel’s recent military actions. This debris, tainted with unexploded ordnance and hazardous materials like asbestos, poses an ongoing threat to the lives and health of Gaza’s people. The presence of human remains amidst this wreckage adds to the unbearable emotional toll on the community.

The scale of devastation far surpasses previous conflicts, with the amount of debris being 13 times greater than all previous wars in Gaza since 2008. This massive task of debris removal requires over 100 trucks and a staggering $500 million, underlining the overwhelming challenges faced by the region. The economic and logistical burdens are immense, making recovery seem almost insurmountable without international support.

Amid a relentless blockade, basic necessities like food, water, and medicine are severely restricted, compounding the humanitarian crisis. With 50,000 bombs dropped and 2,000 to 3,000 remaining unexploded, the risk to civilian lives continues even after active conflict has ceased. The impact of these actions reverberates through every aspect of daily life, leaving families in a perpetual state of fear and uncertainty.

The cost of rebuilding homes alone is projected to stretch into 2040, with expenses reaching $40 billion to $50 billion. The destruction has rolled back the region’s human development by 40 years, wiping out decades of progress in education, health, and living standards. This regression to the 1980s underscores the profound setback faced by the people of Gaza, whose aspirations for a better future have been shattered.

Palestinians walk past destroyed houses in Jabalia refugee camp, in the northern Gaza Strip February 22, 2024. REUTERS/Mahmoud Issa

The emotional and physical scars inflicted on Gaza demand urgent international attention and action. The immense scale of the devastation calls for immediate ceasefire and concerted efforts to provide relief and aid. This catastrophic situation is not just a regional issue but a profound humanitarian crisis that challenges the conscience of the global community, calling for compassion, justice, and rebuilding of lives and hope.