Alan Clement
Bor is grappling flooding after heavy rainfall and overflow of the Nile River, prompting the town mayor, Achiek Machar, to declare a state of emergency.
Entire neighborhoods of Bor, Jonglei State capital of South Sudan, now submerged, leaving thousands of residents displaced, numerous homes and businesses destroyed.
The rising waters have also crippled critical infrastructure, including roads, water supply systems, and electricity networks.
“This is not just a local disaster, it’s a national tragedy,” Mayor Machar said. “Our people are suffering. We need immediate government intervention, humanitarian assistance, and long-term flood management strategies to prevent such devastation from recurring.” Machar added.
Local authorities say the flooding has affected nearly every part of the town, with emergency shelters overwhelmed and food supplies quickly dwindling.
The mayor is appealing to both the national government and international humanitarian agencies to step in urgently with aid including food, clean water, medical supplies and temporary shelter.
Jonglei State has long been vulnerable to seasonal flooding, but this year’s inundation has already been described as one of the worst in recent memory.
Observers warn that without immediate relief efforts and sustainable solutions such as improved drainage systems and dykes; the impact could spiral into a larger humanitarian crisis.
As rescue operations continue, local volunteers and aid groups are working tirelessly to reach stranded families and provide essential relief, but resources remain critically limited.
The call for a state of emergency aims to mobilize national support and bring heightened attention to a region in desperate need of help.