By Yiep Joseph
In anticipation of the rainy season, Northern Bahr el Ghazal (NBG) state government has begun construction of a drainage system to prevent flooding.
State Governor Simon Ober Mawut conducted an inspection of the ongoing project on Saturday to ensure the drainage system, designed to enhance flood control, is fully operational before the rains begin.
“The drainage system project is designed to improve flood control, prevent road damage, and protect vital infrastructure and households from destruction, particularly during the rainy season. Additionally, it seeks to mitigate the environmental impact of flooding in the region,” according to a statement from his office.
Based on the statement the tour also aimed at ensuring that the project meets all safety and quality standards while addressing any outstanding issues or deficiencies identified during the inspection.
last year Local residents in Northern Bahr el Ghazal state shared harrowing experiences resulting from worsening flood conditions, particularly in areas like Mayen-ulem and Wathok Road, which have been severely affected by heavy downpours.
Some residents recounted incidents such as vehicles veering off roads, leading to fatalities within the community.
Bol Bol, a resident of Achana in Gom-juer West Payam, described the extent of the damage as significant.
“People are being displaced. They are moving to higher or flat areas, but some don’t have relatives to welcome them. The situation is difficult to describe,” Bol said.
He called on the authorities to expedite efforts to support the vulnerable population affected by the floods.
meanwhile, in a separate statement, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs Albino Akol Atak said mitigation measures are being initiated through task forces that have been formed to spearhead flood mitigation efforts through early warning systems.
“We are here to inform everyone to move to higher ground. The second phase involves responding through the verification of the actual beneficiaries, such as women, children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, among others,” he said.
“We will take action once partners and local authorities confirm that they are genuinely vulnerable,” he added.
He stated that it is a national responsibility for everyone to assist the displaced groups.
However, he urged people to first move to higher ground if their area is deemed susceptible to flooding.
Akol added that international partners and the government are earmarking funds to be allocated to flood-affected internally displaced persons (IDPs).
In 2022, it was reported that 809,000 people were affected by severe flooding in five counties of Northern Bahr el Ghazal State, officials said.