“Rubble represents a major challenge in Gaza, where the estimated amount is between 55 and 60 million tonnes,” said Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Representative in Palestine.

The UN agency taking the vital first step by clearing roads and recycling materials to pave new access routes and temporary facilities.

Dozens of diggers and other vehicles have been deployed along Al-Jalaa Street, where UNDP says it is working around the clock to open roads that have been blocked for months.

“This is a very arduous process and will take many years to complete,” Mr. Cilliers cautioned.