Negev Mayors Urge PM to Save Rotem Amfert Plant, Thousands of Jobs
Translated & summarized from Walla by baba
Mayors of Be'er Sheva, Dimona, Arad, and Yeruham sent an urgent letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu requesting the continued operation of the Rotem Amfert plant. They warn that without a solution, thousands of jobs in the southern region are at risk as the plant's current capacity is nearing its limit. The mayors highlighted that a plan to use additional capacity has already received broad approval and urged action to prevent economic damage.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Negev mayors urged Prime Minister Netanyahu to ensure the continued operation of the Rotem Amfert plant.
- Thousands of jobs in southern Israel are at risk if the plant's operational continuity is not secured.
- The plant's current capacity is expected to reach its limit by early next year.
- A plan to use additional capacity has received broad approval from planning committees and environmental bodies.
- Mayors emphasized the need to balance environmental values with economic and societal needs.
Local leaders from Be'er Sheva, Dimona, Arad, and Yeruham have sent an urgent letter to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, government ministers, and the chairman of the National Planning and Building Council, attorney Beni Arbiv. They are requesting assurances for the continued operation of the Rotem Amfert plant.
The mayors warned that without a swift solution ensuring the plant's operational continuity, there is a significant risk of severe damage to employment and the economic resilience of the entire southern region. The plant's current capacity, specifically its "Pool 5" storage facility, is expected to reach full capacity by early next year.
The plan submitted for approval by the National Council seeks permission to use "Pool 4." According to the local leaders, this plan has undergone extensive planning, received approval from the District Planning Committee, and faced no objections from the Ministry of Environmental Protection, the Water Authority, the Nature and Parks Authority, or environmental organizations.
"The plant directly employs approximately 1,000 workers, with thousands more in related employment, transportation, and supplier sectors," the mayors stated in their letter. "Public responsibility requires a balance between environmental values and the needs of society and the economy. Shutting down the plant would not be a local event; its consequences would be felt in all communities in the region. Now is the time to validate the completed professional process and avert the danger to the Negev."
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