Palestinian warnings of bakery closures in Gaza due to lack of spare parts and maintenance
Gaza, September 27 (KUNA) -- The Bakers Association in the Gaza Strip warned today, Sunday, of the severe repercussions of a critical shortage of spare parts and maintenance supplies on the operations of bakeries in the
Translated by Qiyas from كونا — Original source
Gaza, September 27 (KUNA) -- The Bakers Association in the Gaza Strip warned today, Sunday, of the severe repercussions of a critical shortage of spare parts and maintenance supplies on the operations of bakeries in the Gaza Strip, stressing that the continuation of this problem could lead to the shutdown of several bakeries if their equipment breaks down.
Abdulnasser Al-Ajrami, president of the association, said in a press statement that approximately 40 bakeries are currently operating in the northern and southern parts of the Strip, supported by the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP), which contributes to the rehabilitation and operation of these bakeries.
Al-Ajrami clarified that the program provides flour and diesel fuel to approximately 22 bakeries to enable them to sell bread at affordable prices to Palestinians or distribute it to shelter centers, while its support for approximately 18 other bakeries is limited to providing the necessary diesel fuel for operation.
He pointed out that the acute shortage of spare parts required for the maintenance of equipment and machinery represents the most prominent obstacle facing bakeries, noting that these supplies have not entered the Gaza Strip for about two years, thereby limiting maintenance and rehabilitation efforts.
He added that electrical generators have suffered significant wear due to continuous operation over the years without periodic maintenance, warning that the breakdown of any equipment could take some bakeries out of service if the necessary spare parts for repairs are not available.
He noted that the crisis regarding generator oils had been overcome following approval for their entry into the Strip, while requests to import new electrical generators and essential spare parts remain under review. He confirmed ongoing coordination with the World Food Programme and the United Nations to address the challenges facing bakeries and ensure the continuity of bread production. (End) w.a.b / s.m.a
