Floods in DR Congo Capital Kill at Least 19 People, Reports Minister
Heavy rains in Kinshasa, DR Congo, have killed at least 19 people, submerging neighborhoods. The provincial minister cited significant material damage and flooding of over 500 homes. Poor drainage infrastructure exacerbates the issue, particularly affecting low-income areas. This follows a similar deadly event in April, raising concerns over flood preparedness.
Flooding in Kinshasa, the capital city of the Democratic Republic of Congo, has resulted in the tragic loss of at least 19 lives, as reported by a provincial minister. The heavy rainfall struck on Saturday morning, overwhelming several neighborhoods in the populous city of 17 million inhabitants. Images circulating on social media depict the extent of the destruction.
Thierry Kabuya, Kinshasa’s provincial interior minister, provided crucial details about the situation, stating, “This evening we have a provisional toll of 19 dead: 17 in the commune of Ngaliema and two in Lemba, with more than 500 homes flooded in the commune of Matete.” The minister highlighted the significant material damage caused by landslides in the affected areas.
Unfortunately, floods are not an uncommon occurrence in Kinshasa, which is located along the Congo River, Africa’s second-largest river. Poor infrastructure and inadequate sewer systems exacerbate the issue, as drainage pipes in many underprivileged neighborhoods are blocked with debris. Residents in informal settlements, often made up of makeshift housing without proper streets, face heightened vulnerability during such weather events.
This latest disaster follows another heavy downpour in April that claimed around 30 lives. The situation remains dire, as data from the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs indicates that approximately 6.9 million individuals across west and central Africa were affected by severe flooding and torrential rains last year.
With the rainy season ongoing, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and are calling for improved urban planning and sanitary measures to prevent future tragedies. Residents are reminded that safety and preparedness can mitigate the dangers posed by floods.
In summary, Kinshasa has faced a devastating impact from floods recently, with 19 confirmed fatalities attributed to the heavy rains. This incident underscores the challenges posed by poor infrastructure in the capital, heightening the risk for its most vulnerable residents. As the rainy season continues, there is a pressing need for better drainage systems and community preparedness to mitigate the impact of future floods.
Original Source: www.bssnews.net
Post Comment