In October 2024, N’Djamena faced rising waters from the Chari River, reaching levels higher than in previous years, prompting effective responses from local and international partners. The Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER) significantly contributed to cleaning drainage infrastructure, which helped minimize flood damage compared to prior years. The community’s preparedness and improved infrastructure played a crucial role in mitigating risks, demonstrating enhanced resilience amid climate challenges.
N’Djamena, the capital of Chad, faces a challenge as it is located at the meeting point of the Chari and Logone rivers. In October 2024, the Chari River rose to 8.18 meters, an increase compared to previous years, as the city grapples with climate change-induced floods. Humanitarian organizations report that flooding since July has resulted in 576 fatalities and rendered 1.9 million people homeless across the country, marking a significant disaster not seen since the 1960s.
In October 2022, severe floods caused widespread devastation, forcing many residents to flee. Infrastructure, including outdated water piping and dikes, failed during that catastrophic event. However, N’Djamena demonstrated resilience in 2024 due to proactive measures implemented through the Integrated Flood Control and Urban Resilience Project (PILIER), supported by the International Development Association (IDA) and the World Bank.
An emergency plan funded at approximately $13 million was initiated to prepare for potential flooding in 2024. Between April and September, the PILIER project ensured the thorough cleaning and maintenance of a 250 km drainage network, preventing the accumulation of sludge and waste. The initiative also included repairing damaged roads to enhance water drainage, effectively facilitating runoff during heavy rains.
“Thanks to the cleaning work carried out by the project since June, we escaped disastrous floods this year,” noted Sarmadji Oumar, the director of roads at N’Djamena’s city hall. The impact of the project is evident, with the number of affected households reduced dramatically compared to the previous year.
Mobile motorized pumps, introduced by the PILIER project, allowed for the effective monitoring of rising water levels. Road crews were vigilant, acting promptly at the first warnings. This operational readiness helped mitigate flood damage and exemplified community cooperation.
The Chad government also invested in enhancing emergency dikes and securing vulnerable points along the Chari River. Sheikh Adam Ismail, an imam, emphasized the gratitude of the community for the cleaning of canals, noting improved accessibility to local places of worship.
Residents, such as market vendor Rémadji Aline, observed positive changes owing to the successful canal clean-up, resulting in increased customer traffic even amidst heavy rain.
The PILIER project goes beyond flood prevention, incorporating emergency response strategies that include providing essential equipment like canoes and communication tools. They aim to assist potential disaster victims with necessities such as water stations, emergency kits, and public health support initiatives like rehabilitating affected schools and health centers.
The proactive measures taken by N’Djamena’s local government, alongside foreign support through the PILIER project, have significantly improved the city’s resilience against flooding. By maintaining infrastructure, effectively managing emergency measures, and engaging the community, N’Djamena has successfully mitigated potential disaster impacts, demonstrating the importance of preparedness in the face of climate challenges. This comprehensive approach holds valuable lessons for flood-prone regions globally.
Original Source: www.worldbank.org
