Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Observer
Published on 2024-04-15 04:31:35
At least 12 people were killed and over 50 are still missing following a tragic incident in southwest Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) caused by heavy rain. The disaster occurred on Saturday around midday in Dibaya Lubwe commune in Kwilu province, when a ravine collapsed onto the Kasai River where a boat was docking and people were washing clothes.
The aftermath of the landslide has resulted in 12 bodies being recovered from the rubble, including nine women, three men, and a baby, as confirmed by interim provincial Governor Felicien Kiway. Approximately 50 individuals are still unaccounted for, with search efforts ongoing despite slim chances of finding survivors due to the time that has elapsed since the incident.
Arsene Kasiama, the coordinator of a local civil society group, reported that the landslide also impacted people at a nearby market. The death toll stands at 11, with seven individuals sustaining serious injuries and more than 60 individuals still missing. This tragedy highlights the vulnerability of communities in the Congo to extreme weather events, exacerbated by poor urban planning and inadequate infrastructure.
Climate experts warn that the region is experiencing more frequent and intense rainfall patterns as a result of rising temperatures, further increasing the risk of such disasters. The reliance on weak infrastructure and unplanned settlements in the Congo makes it challenging for communities to withstand the impacts of climate change.
It is essential for both local and national authorities to prioritize disaster preparedness and invest in infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events. Climate-resilient measures and early warning systems can help mitigate the risks faced by vulnerable communities in the Congo and other regions prone to similar disasters.
The tragic incident in Dibaya Lubwe is a stark reminder of the urgent need to address the underlying factors that exacerbate the impact of natural disasters. Improved urban planning, infrastructure development, and climate adaptation strategies are crucial for building more resilient communities and reducing the loss of life in the face of increasingly severe weather events.
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