Morocco unveils rehousing programme for quake-hit areas

Morocco announced the launch of an aid programme on Thursday to support and rehouse the residents of about 50,000 buildings damaged in last week's devastating earthquake.

The King of Morocco, Mohammed VI, chaired a meeting to support and rehouse people displaced by a strong earthquake.

Those left homeless will be provided with temporary shelter in "structures designed to withstand cold and bad weather, or in reception sites equipped with all the necessary amenities", the royal office said in a statement.

The Moroccan authorities have also ordered urgent aid of nearly $3,000 to households affected by the disaster.  It said this would form the first stage of a programme covering some 50,000 homes.

Morocco has allowed rescue teams to come to its aid from Spain, Britain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.