Severe Flooding in Kinshasa Claims Approximately 30 Lives

Torrential rains in Kinshasa have caused around 30 deaths and severe flooding. The overflow of the Ndjili River blocked roads and left neighborhoods without power and water supply. Authorities are addressing the situation and questioning illegal housing practices, while also acknowledging the impact of human activities on flooding. This comes amid escalating security issues in the region due to ongoing conflict.

In Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo, approximately 30 fatalities have been reported due to significant flooding resulting from recent torrential rains. Provincial health minister Patricien Gongo Abakazi indicated that this death count is provisional as the situation continues to develop. The flooding, which occurred after the Ndjili River overflowed its banks, disrupted infrastructure and left many neighborhoods severely affected.

Floodwaters blocked the main national road since Friday night, resulting in motorists being stranded. Kinshasa resident Patricia Mikonga recounted her ordeal, stating that she and others spent the night in their cars due to the lack of safe parking options during the flood. The disruption extended to power outages across several neighborhoods, aggravating the conditions.

In the Makala district, resident Kerene Yala pointed to the disrupted water supply as a major concern. Kinshasa Governor Daniel Bumba Lubaki confirmed the adverse effects on water infrastructure but assured that supply could be restored within two to three days. He also attributed some fatalities to illegal housing and indicated that he may take action to displace residents from unregulated settlements.

Hydrologist Dr. Raphael Tshimanga Muamba highlighted the role of human activity in exacerbating river flooding, noting that “anthropogenic actions” have degraded rivers, diminishing their flood management capacity. The flooding event raises significant concerns for Kinshasa, particularly as the country faces ongoing security challenges from escalating rebel violence in the east, with significant civilian tolls reported in the region.

The flooding in Kinshasa has had a severe impact, leading to approximately 30 deaths and substantial infrastructural damage. Local authorities are responding to the crisis, with assurances of restoring essential services. The situation underscores the vulnerabilities faced by the region, compounded by ongoing conflict and inadequate urban planning. Future measures may need to address both environmental management and housing regulations to mitigate such disasters.

Original Source: www.gmanetwork.com