Introduction
After 20 years of service at the Mosul morgue, Abdul-Kareem Ahmed has become inured to death, especially in recent years, where violence has claimed the lives of up to 150 city residents every day. But Ahmed's detachment was shattered when the charred body of a young man was laid on the autopsy table. Ahmed immediately recognized the silver ring on the corpse's finger - a gift he had given his 20-year-old son Kazim when he graduated from the college of administration at Mosul University.
Morgue Struggles in Mosul
Along with the central morgue in Baghdad, the morgue in Mosul struggles to cope with the number of corpses brought in each day. Like the capital, this northern city - a stronghold of Sunni militants, foreign fighters, and members of the Islamic Emirate in Iraq, which allies itself with al-Qaeda - has been ravaged by sectarian conflict and insurgency.
Psychological Strain on Morgue Staff
Khalid Abdul-Ameer, an administrator at the morgue, said they sometimes receive corpses of whole families who have been killed because of their religion, ethnicity or the party affiliation or profession of a family member. The constant stream of charred, deformed, and mutilated corpses, and the public's apparent disdain for the job they do, puts the 23 staff under enormous psychological strain. "People look at us as if we were butchers," said one employee.
The Overwhelming Workload
The most common causes of death here are roadside bombs, gunshots, torture, and decapitation - and most of the victims are members of the Iraqi security forces or the former regime, state officials, journalists, and translators. Staff at the morgue are so overstretched that the director has had to train unqualified staff to do autopsies. "I will employ anyone, even illiterates and people with no academic qualifications. I will teach them how to conduct autopsies," said Ryadh Hamdi.
The Desperation and Sorrow
Dr. Thirgham al-Ubaidi, one of the few doctors still working there, feels desperate at the overwhelming number of dead arriving every day. "The morgue door never closes any more - we're always busy," he said. It's demoralizing, soul-destroying work. The staff members at the Mosul morgue witness gruesome sights on a daily basis.
The Challenge of Identifying the Dead
One of the biggest problems is the number of corpses that staff are unable to put names to - bodies that have been deformed beyond recognition with no personal documentation - although relatives usually manage to identify them by spotting something familiar, such as a piece of clothing or jewelry.
A Personal Tragedy
Just as Ahmed discovered that his son - who, he said, had everything to live for - had become yet another victim of the conflict. "The morning of the day he died we were talking about his desire to get married to his cousin, and now he is in a plastic bag," he said.
Hotels in Mosul
While the situation in Mosul is grim with the continuous violence and loss of life, the city still attracts visitors for various reasons, such as business or tourism. Amidst the chaos, several hotels provide accommodation to both locals and tourists.
1. Grand Hotel Mosul
Located in the heart of the city, Grand Hotel Mosul offers luxury accommodations with stunning views of the Tigris River. The hotel boasts spacious rooms, fine dining options, and a range of facilities such as a swimming pool, spa, and fitness center.
2. Al-Rasheed Hotel
Al-Rasheed Hotel is a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers. Situated near the historic old town, the hotel provides comfortable rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the hotel's restaurant and explore nearby attractions easily.
3. Nineveh Palace Hotel
For those looking for a unique experience, Nineveh Palace Hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and historical charm. The hotel is housed in a restored building with traditional architecture and features elegant rooms and a rooftop terrace overlooking the city.
4. Babylon Hotel
Babylon Hotel offers a convenient location near Mosul International Airport, making it a preferred choice for business travelers. The hotel provides well-appointed rooms, meeting facilities, and a range of services to cater to the needs of its guests.
5. Al-Salam Hotel
Situated in a peaceful area of Mosul, Al-Salam Hotel offers a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere. The hotel features comfortable rooms, a garden, and a restaurant serving a variety of cuisines. It's an ideal choice for those seeking a quiet retreat.
Conclusion
While the Mosul morgue bears the brunt of the city's violent conflict, hotels in the area continue to provide accommodation for visitors despite the challenging circumstances. These hotels aim to offer comfort and respite to those who need it, amidst the chaotic and tragic reality faced by the people of Mosul.